MAPUSA
A simmering standoff is brewing along the banks of the River Mandovi as residents of Reis Magos and neighbouring Verem have declared an all-out fight against any move to dock a casino vessel on the Verem side of the river, calling it a direct assault on their livelihood, culture and land rights.
At a charged awareness meeting attended by a large number of villagers, locals warned the State government that they would not hesitate to launch street protests and move court if their objections are ignored. The proposed casino docking, they said, is only the latest flashpoint in what they describe as “systematic destruction” of the village through controversial construction licences.
“Our message to the government is loud and clear “ no casino in our waters,” said Harish, a resident, drawing applause from the gathering.
“Our people survive on fishing along the riverside. Bringing a casino here will wipe out our traditional livelihood and permanently alter the character of this village,” he said further.
Villagers alleged that permissions are being granted under Section 39(A) of the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Act to push through large-scale construction, bypassing local opposition.
They announced plans to file a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging these approvals.
“Rampant construction is going on. Licences are being issued in blatant disregard of public sentiment. We are preparing to approach the High Court against permissions granted under Section 39(A),” Harish added.
The meeting also turned political, with sharp criticism directed at local MLA Kedar Naik. Villagers accused him of remaining silent despite being informed of their concerns over both the casino proposal and the construction clearances.
“We have repeatedly told the MLA that the people are against the casino and these NOCs. But he seems to be ignoring us,” said Sonu, another villager.
“If the government refuses to listen, we are ready to take to the streets. This is about protecting our land for future generations,” he added.
Several residents also expressed disappointment with the village panchayat, alleging that key decisions were taken without consulting the gram sabha.
With tempers rising and legal action on the cards, the Mandovi riverfront could soon witness not just floating casinos “ but a full-blown people’s agitation over land, livelihood and the future of Goa’s coastal villages.
