Gang wars in Goa
An unexpected streak of crimes that shocked South Goa, including two incidents of gunfire, assault on police and extortion bid has reportedly prompted the police to keep a strict vigil on anti-social elements. In a bid to restore order, police stations have reportedly begun rounding up history-sheeters, in the process detaining those involved in gang war. It is learnt that the gang wars have overwhelmed the Margao police station lock-up which is now packed with under trials. As part of the drive ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi, the police are also scrutinising criminal records and re-opening old files in order to identify repeat offenders. It would be in the fitness of things to order tadipaar of offenders who pose danger to society. The process of externment is a legal process by which the police can order a person to leave a specific district or area for a period, typically not exceeding six months, and prohibit their re-entry. This measure aims to curb criminal activity and maintain public order, but must be exercised within the framework of fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution. The Bombay Police Act, 1951, which is applicable in Goa, gives police the power to remove individuals seen as a threat to public safety. Externment can be used to protect the public by limiting the actions of individuals deemed a threat to public safety and order. It helps in maintaining peace and order in an area by creating a deterrent to those involved in goondagiri and gang wars.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Going green this Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals in India. It is believed that the one who worships Lord Ganesha with complete faith and devotion, will be blessed with happiness, knowledge, wealth and long life. Lord Ganesha is considered to be the God of success and prosperity. But some Ganesh Chaturthi practices are harming the environment. However, after the celebration gets over, the seas, rivers and lakes are often left dirty, harming all the water creatures in them. Plaster of Paris is the most common element used to create the Ganesha idols. POP is not a natural occurring material; hence it takes months, sometimes even years to dissolve in water. The chemical dyes used to paint these idols are also harmful to the environment, as they result in water pollution. They also contain poisonous and heavy metals such as lead, mercury, etc. which enters the water as the idol dissolves and harms water life. Along with the idols, several other items are immersed in water such as flowers, banana leaves and coconuts making the water dirty and impure. Items used for decorations are also dumped into the seas, rivers and lakes. The toxic and heavy paints from the idols form a layer on the water surface which increases acidic content of the water and deprives fish and other aquatic animals of oxygen. That is why many fish are found dead and floating on the surface of the water after the immersions take place. To avoid causing harm to the environment, here are a few tips and precautions one can take to ensure that the celebrations are eco-friendly: Buy eco-friendly idols for celebrating the festival. Clay idols dissolve immediately, greatly lessening or completely preventing water pollution. Don’t use materials like thermacol or plastics for decorations which are not degradable and do not dissolve in water. Instead, you can use biodegradable items like plain or coloured paper for decorations. Remove flowers, garlands and other decorative items before immersing the idols in water. Distribute food items like coconuts and fruits to the poor. Make a compost of all the biodegradable items, including flowers. Flowers can be mixed with the soil which will help the plants in the garden to grow better.
Jubel D’Cruz, Mumbai
Surge in road accidents
Following the ongoing issue with stray dogs, road accidents are now increasing at an alarming rate. Just four days ago, a high-speed collision between two four-wheelers occurred on the highway, causing a tire to detach and land in the middle of the road. Most of these accidents involve rental cabs and local vehicles, often due to reckless driving by tourists and drunk drivers. Additionally, accidents are rising because of potholes on the road between Porvorim and Mapusa. Recently, a woman lost control of her vehicle after hitting a pothole and was injured. Currently, flyovers are being constructed on the Porvorim-Mapusa road and also in Dabolim and Vasco. However, contractors have neglected the existing roads, which are heavily used by commuters. Many two-wheeler riders have injured themselves after losing balance due to continuous potholes and lack of proper road space. The potholes are so widespread that there is barely any space left to drive safely. Every bump causes two-wheeler riders to jolt, often resulting in loss of control and serious injuries to both riders and passengers.
Raju Ramamurthy, Vasco
