Very interesting to read some of the remarks over my reference to 'Tarvotteachim bondollam' used in my open questions to Churchill Alemao. I am definitely not the first one to use the phrase but people tell me that there is a konkani song with this theme. In my childhood the phrase was used very often. But what is of little surprise is that instead of debating upon the primary contents we Goans choose are experts at diverting the focus and clinging to the irrelevant. No one denies that Tarvottis and gulfies did not improve their own living conditions and educate their children. But besides improving their economic status and personal social status, what has been their meaningful contribution to the over all political, social and cultural development of this State? They brought in the money and hoarded it in the banks? Did they not start off the rat race with other less fortunate Goans trying to imitate them and resorting to beg, borrow or steal to also improve their economic status? Did this lifestyle not trigger off a mistaken notion of economic and social empowerment in Goa? Who is it that danced with the politicians to get benefits as sailors and NRIs from the politicians? Did all this not trigger off a feeling among Goans that migrating abroad gives benefits of special government status for the dollars they bring in, while those who stay on and serve their own State and country get nothing? These are the issues that need to be discussed.
-Soter D'Souza
