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The Congress accused the Modi government of turning Goa into a coal hub to benefit Adani, neglecting tourism, culture, and the environment. Party leaders demanded accountability, a CBI probe into recent incidents, and protection for Goa through a constitutional amendment bill.
New Delhi: The Congress party held a press conference at its Delhi office, accusing the Modi government of working with the Adani Group to turn Goa into a coal hub. Party leaders said the proposed bill is aimed at protecting Goa’s environment, culture, and tourism-based economy.
Briefing the media, AICC in-charge for Goa affairs Shanikrao Thakre said Goa is one of India’s most important tourism states and safeguarding it is a national responsibility. He alleged that both the central and state governments have failed to take necessary steps to protect Goa and have ignored the state’s long-standing issues.
Thakre further claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had made promises to the people of Goa in 2014 but failed to deliver even after twelve years. According to him, neither the state government nor the Centre has worked in Goa’s interest during this period.
Congress leaders alleged that Goa’s culture is being systematically destroyed and tourism is steadily declining. Referring to a recent tragic incident where 25 people lost their lives in a club fire, the party claimed that no concrete action was taken against those responsible. The Congress demanded a CBI inquiry into the incident.
Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes alleged that the “double-engine” BJP government is building roads and infrastructure to benefit Adani, with the aim of converting Goa into a coal hub. He claimed that six rivers (nadis) in Goa have been taken over and said the Amendment Bill 371 IA has been introduced specifically to protect Goa.
Goa Pradesh Congress Committee president Amit Patkar said Prime Minister Modi had promised a Special Status Bill for Goa in 2014, which was never fulfilled. He accused the double-engine government of ruining the state and said the new bill is an attempt to restore governance in Goa.
Patkar added that locals are being forced to leave Goa, the state’s cultural identity is eroding, and environmental destruction is taking place under the current government.
