[Goanet] Arise, Learn and Struggle: Call from anti-Bauxite mining public meet in Morpirla, Goa
Even as year 2007 is coming to an end protest against bauxite mining are only begining in a serene village of Morpirla in Goa's Quepem Taluka. On 30th December 2007 Morpirla Bachao Samiti organised public meeting to protest against this move of the private enterprise Shakti mines. Various speakers addressed this public protest gathering that was attended by nearly 400 Morpirla villagers. Around 800 hactares of land is sort be acquired for the mining purpose covering the the villages in the Panchayat jurisdictions of Betul, Fatorpa, Velim, and Morpirla. It is only on Decemeber 09 2007 that the villagers became aware of this when Gawada, Kunbi, Velip and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) team consisting of its President Durgadas Gaonkar and Rama Velip visited Morpirla with notice of public hearing published in local newspapers. Corner meetings, house to house visits, etc are in the progress to mobalize the villagers against the bauxite mining project. Katu Velip pointed to the irony in the government planning system as Morpirla village was selected for government's watershed management programme and even implimented to re-charge ground water table; and now Bauxite mining will run their village water table towards depletion. Narayan Velip branded mining in Goa as Cancer that needs to be dealt with seriously and Morpirla village must be prevented from contracting the same. Chandrakand Kavlekar, Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Quepem constituency disclosed that the bauxite mining company has requested the permission to mine 10 lakh tonnes of Bauxite per year. "This is going to be disaster for the cluster of our villages", he warned. He urged the villagers to organise themselves and fight against the the bauxite mining company. He further disclosed that mining company's lease has expired in 1998 and still it is proceeding with land acquisition process; hoping to get the permission from the Central government in India. Sebastian Rodrigues, MAND coordinator and volunteer of Nature Environment Society and Transformations (NEST) volunteer explained the critical links between Bauxite mining and global war industry. He pointed out that Bauxite mining is promoted to boost corporates dealing with missile productions which in times of war causes only misery to common people from all over the world where ever wars are fought. Bauxite mining in Morpirla and surrounding villages are getting these villages in the global chain of war industry. He said that protest against bauxite mining in Morpirla is also protest against global war industry. He expressed his support to the Morpirla Bachao Samiti in the ongoing protest. Advocate John Fernandes declared his support to opposition to mining in Goa and pointed out that 80% of people in Goa's mining belt have suffered because of mining. He alerted the villagers to demand 'call letter' from the police officials in case State tries to arrest the protesting villagers in near future, and not to get scared of the State power and Police intimidation tactics. Rama Velip from Colamb Bachao Samiti expressed words of support from villagers of Colamb that are battling iron ore mining. Deepak Karmalkar from GAKUVED called for sustained non-violent movement against bauxite mining in Goa. Bhiva Katu Velip from Morpirla explained that bauxite mining will ruin the village and said that this planet earth needs to be passed on the future generation intact just as his generation have inherited the same from past generations. Bhikudas Velip from Bernude village and Member of Balli Panchayat shared his experience of fighting the State power in the case of land aquisition for Garbage dumping purpose. He called upon villagers of Morpilla to 'Arise, Learn and Struggle'. Sita Velip from Saptakoteshwar Mahila Mandal pointed out that bauxite mining will make grazing of their cattles impossible as the grazing lands will go under the mining leases. She called upon the women of Morpirla to participate in anti-bauxite mining protests. Damodar Mangueshkar from GAKUVED urged women to come out boldly to fight bauxite mining project in Morpirla and neighboring villages. Durgadas Gaonkar, GAKUVED president criticized the Communidades for handing over surface rights to mining companies and called upon the villagers to step up their vigilance against activities of communidades in this regards. He expressed his regrets that Communidades that originally belonged to adivasi people called 'Ganvkaris'; have been taken control by handful of attorneys and are involved in negotiating the adivasi lands for mining companies like the one for bauxite mining in Morpirla and another one for magnesium mining in Colamb. He gave example of Colomba Communidade wherein adivasis are thrown out from the Communidade records even as their names are present in Portuguese records of 1882. He called upon the y
[Goanet] Tension building up in Colamb, Sanguem, Goa
According to the reports reaching from Colamb, Sanguem group of villagers in defence of land and agriculture have march to the to the Fomento open cast mine in TC no 6 of 1949. Police has not reached reache but the mining company's goons have decended on the scene. Here is a bacgkground note for this incident:- We are towards the end of the third week of 2008, and yet memories and heroic struggles that pitched at new heights in 2007 in Colamb Sanguem, Goa is only too fresh in our minds. One particular mining company that attracted people’s wrath has been the Fomentos; though its mines under lease TC No. 6 of 1949 covering 70.1870 hectares granted by colonial State of Portugal to Hiralal Khodidas continues its operation till, signs of discontents are increasing day by day and it is only a matter of time before the industry and the Government of Goa and India are forced to rethink India’s mineral policy that is currently nothing more than dig, wash and sell to China (Earlier in the decades of 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s and 1990s it was Japan). The mining industry through its agent Fomentos have been involved in massive scale torments and insult to the dignity of Colamb villagers - many of them adivasis. Mining has badly destroyed their agriculture, ripped apart their shelter like the case of Devki KatuVelip, and so many other mischief such as siltation of water bodies and agricultural lands, drying up of natural water springs, unbearable sound pollution due to machinery operated in Open Cast Iron Ore mine, subversion of democratic institutions like letting the mining company operate weigh bridge without permission and the list could go on endless. Colamb village is at the crossroads. Mining industry with its 22 mining leases seeks to gallop 1510 hectares of Colamb's total land of 1929 hectares. The total land that remains is 419 hectares, which with all probability will be covered with mining rejects. That means mining industry in Colamb alone is going to create additional over 2000 ecological refugees. Industry here seeks to repeat what it has done in north Goa’s villages such as Pale and Pissurlem. Fomentos like other mining companies such as Chowgules, Sesa Goa, Dempos, Damodar Mangaljis, and Salgaoncars have been highly generous in chopping down mountains, disrupting agriculture besides introducing alcoholism and goondaism in mining intensive villages. A locality like Sanvordem has given rise to mafia though in its nascent stage is brought to Colamb to quell the protestors. Of course not to speak of monetary allurements offered to the villagers along with offers of pouring funds in the religious activities including constructions of religious structures. Colamb villagers under these circumstances are left with difficult choice: either perish or stand in rebellion. -- www.mandgoa.blogspot.com MAND An adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) "Hari Smriti" 381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas, Goa. Pincode: 403 110 _ Post free property ads on Yello Classifieds now! www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=219
[Goanet] COLAMB VILLAGERS STRUGGLE: PHOTOGRAPHIC PIP INTO 2007
Click here for a tour: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/01/colamb-villagers-struggle-photographic.html Warmly, Seby _ Post free property ads on Yello Classifieds now! www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=220
[Goanet] Colamb villagers force shut down of Fomentos Mine.
In a major breakthrough to the movement of Colamb villagers seeking to defend their land and agricultural livelihood, group of over 200 villagers stormed into the Fomento mines TC No. 06/1949 and forced to shut down two of its operating units in Colamb village. According to the reports received villagers entered the Khodidas Hiralal mine operated by Goa corporate house of Fomentos at 11.00am today January 21, 2008. Mining company was prepared to tackle the situation as it brought in 6 bouncers (Goons) from the nearby Cacora-Sanvordem area with three bike bearing registration numbers GA08 5408, GA08 2464, and GA08 D6504. The strategy of the mining company was not to involve the police and deal with the protesting villagers by the application of private muscle power. (It remains to be seen as to how Goa Police deals with the Goons brought to the mining site to threaten the villagers or is it going to be the story as usual: favour and encourage mining mafia.) The strategy however failed due to presence of over 200 villagers and also their supporters from different parts of Goa. The supporters included Arun Madgaonkar, Vithal Khandeparkar and Kalidas Savaikar. The first thing that the villagers did was gave half an hour deadline to the mining company to shut down its operations. Written letter to this effect was also handed over the mining company by the villagers. Earlier the letter to this effect was served on the State administration on December 10 2007 by Gawda, Kunbi, Velip and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) during the Human Rights Day Rally. Reminder was again served on the administration a week ago. However administration chose to doze off rather than act against the erring mining companies. When the request was turned down that the mob entered the mine and forced the machinery not only to shut down but also to dismantle the same. Machinery in both the units was forced dismantled. The staff in the screening unit fled from the seen anticipating villagers attack so there was no one working on the site when the villagers raided the mining premises. By 12.30 pm the entire mining plant was shut down and pleasing silence descended. Menacing dozers, rippers and trucks was silenced by this gutsy courage of the villagers. Police came to the scene only when the villagers had done their job and were returning home from the mines. Four Police Jeeps with around 40 police personnel were heading towards the controversial mine. Police Chief from Quepem Police Station tried to coerce the villagers to send in 10 member delegation to the mining company’s office to talks. Of course this offer was not only turned down but police was told that in case they want to talk to the villagers than they must come to the village and express themselves. Police then calmed down from their high pedestal and came into the village with a proposal that they want to convene the meeting of the villagers and mining company in the presence of the Collector. This offer too was politely refused by pointing to the futility of such interactions in the past. Police had faced wrath of the villagers on December 10 2007 when GAKUVED led a morcha (protest march) against Quepem Police Station. Villagers after this victory are keeping continues vigil over the situation; for under their village lies black gold called iron ore and magnesium and corporate have divided 1929 hectares of this village into 22 mining leases covering 1510 hectares, leaving only 419 hectares for the village. That will be covered under mining dumps and occupied by Forest department as reserved forest to be free from people but gifted in exchange of few brief cases to the mining companies. With this action of the villagers of Colamb direct action just addition to December 11 2007 direct attack on mines by Cavrem villagers in Quepem taluka. Fomentos are one of the most notorious business houses as far as their Environment record goes. Politically it shares very close family ties with the present days rulers of Goa. Co-option is done through sponsoring of Dinner parties in its five star hotel Cidade de Goa on Bambolim Coast in North Goa. Wonder when the better sense will prevail upon the Goa’s mining elites? It is better that it prevails soon or situation will force into sensible mode try them for all the nefarious land usurpations, ecological crimes and economic swindling. For the moment it is time for small celebration even while we recall the way Fomentos used Forest department and other state administration to further its will. Of course other mining companies are doing the same. This time this corporate rat is in the movement’s net! -- www.mandgoa.blogspot.com MAND An adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) "Hari Smriti" 381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas, Goa. Pincode: 403 110 _ Post free
[Goanet] Condemn Police Threats of Arrest of Adivasis in Colamb
Late evening of January 21 2008 around 7.00 pm two policemen from Quepem Police Station came over to the house of Rama Velip in Colamb village in Sanguem taluka and asked him to call up PI Mhahmal in Quepem Police Station. When Rama Velip did so from his resident landline someone who identified himself as PI Mhahmal came took the receiver and threatened Rama Velip that if the villagers continue to march on the Fomento mines then he will arrest all the villagers. The reason he gave was that the land on which open cast iron ore mine is operated by Fomentos (TC No. 06/1949 of Hiralal Khodidas) for the purpose of International mining trade is a private land. The villagers who forced themselves on the mines yesterday January 21 2008 were trespassing and therefore liable for arrests and trial for criminal trespass. Therefore according to the Police villagers must refrain from such action in the near future. Now after proof of all the illegalities in the mine under consideration if police wants to protect mining company then is it not acting in the private interest of the mining company i.e. Fomentos? It is indeed amazing as to how one of the few upright officers currently in the Goa Police force is getting arm twisted by the mining company. Still PI Mhahmal kept the option of denial of his action by not giving the threat directly to Rama Velip and administrating it only on the phone. This is exactly the method by which mining companies have been bulldozing public interest in favor of private mining interest. However his threats needs to be taken seriously and diagnosed accordingly. Fomentos have the reputation of using Police force to bulldoze their will over the throats of People. Ten years ago the company did exactly the same in Cacra village of Tiswadi Taluka when it wanted to annihilate this coastal village by dumping some 50,000 tonnes of cement. Police party camped at the site and the drilling operation was going on under police patrolling. The project then was the construction of Off Stockyard and Berth (OSB). The food was being supplied regularly from the nearby Fomentos five star hotel Cidade de Goa. And police was acting entirely in private interest of the corporate against public interest. Later on Fomentos got Police to illegally arrest then convener of Cacra Nagrik Vikas Samiti (CNVS) and was beaten up at Goa Velha Police station under the supervision of PI Sammy Tavares. Detail paper in this regard was presented at recently concluded state level workshop on ‘Land, Mining and Adivasis in Goa’ in Panjim. In Colamb too few villagers were picked few months ago and harassed at the Quepem Police Station and released without any charges. The reason is that they were protesting Fomentos mining of their village. In Cavrem village a month ago message was sent to the villagers that in case they do not let the Fomentos mine to operate then it will deploy 700 policemen and carry on the mining activity under police protection. So he we have serious series of example that lead us to believe that mining industry in general and Fomentos in particular is heading to transform Goa in to Police State. It is precisely it is because of this reason that citizens and democratic forces all over the world needs to unite against Police transforming itself from defenders of citizens in democracy to mafia in uniform of the mining company. The trend indeed is dangerous and deserves our strongest protest and condemnation. Fomentos are trying to achieve what they could not by offers of Carrots by administration of Stick. It however forgets that every action has equal and opposite reaction not only in Newtonian Physics but also in Society. PI Mhahmal could do better to read his criminal law books again, particularly study sections 96 to 101 of Indian penal Code. That will enlighten his further on law of self defense that Colamb Adivasi villagers are actioning. People are forced to physically go and close down the mining precisely due to betrayal by Judiciary of common People of Colamb. And just because judiciary and administration is silenced by mining industry people should accept death? What you say PI Mhahmal? Will you still initiate your threat? Time will tell and we shall all be watching and witnessing your and your departments’ action in this case. Please don’t forget public interest rates higher than private interest of the mining company; public will assert its interest at any cost not withstanding your threats of arrests. For that matter had not mining companies created and run this State of Goa as their private fiefdom for past 46 years? Surely you the answer to this PI Mhamal; State has always been an executive committee of the mining industry in Goa. And State includes Police too. PI Mhahmal as a sensible officer you must apply your common sense and think before dishing out the threats that is it not worthwhile to risk one ones life in defense of ones
[Goanet] Pictures from Colamb Peoples' March on the Fomento Mines
Please click below link to see the pictures of the Colamb Peoples' March on the Fomento mines on January 21 2008: Link: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/01/pictures-from-colamb-peoples-march-on.html Warmly, Seby _ Post free property ads on Yello Classifieds now! www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=219
[Goanet] History created: Mining with Police protection in Colamb, Sanguem!
--- http://www.GOANET.org --- Symposium on Pre-Primary & Primary School Education & Primary School Students Chess Tournament More information at: http://lists.goanet.org/pipermail/goanet-goanet.org/2008-January/068222.html --- This is report MAND received yesterday January 23, 2008. We reproduce this even as same situation viz. mining with police protection and police attempsts to arrest Colamb villagers continues even on January 24, 2008. Today January 23, 2008 is historic day in the life of India’s Goa State; People’s struggle to defend their land and agriculture has touched historic high – Goa police are providing police protection to further mining loot and mineral plunder in Sanguem Taluka’s Colamb village. Quepem Police station has registered over 100 cases against the Colamb villagers that participated in historic march to the mine bearing TC No. 06/1949 belonging to Hiralal Khodidas and operated by Fometos. Fomentos caused insult to the will of the Colamb villagers and Goa’s Adivasi peace loving community by deploying police force in its mine at Colamb, Sanguem and resuming the mining operation of open cast mine. Fomentos owned by businessmen Avadooth Timblo resumed its mining operation under police force. At the same time company filed criminal cases against the villagers for unlawful assembly, rioting, threats to cause death and grievous hurt, intention to break breach of peace, criminal trespass and abduction. Today morning police began to swoop down upon the villagers with intention to arrest them. Goa’s men in Khaki’s trips to villagers’ houses reminded few of the dictatorial Salazar regimes of erstwhile Portuguese colonial State that had granted the mining leases including this one before so called Goa liberation of 1961. There was hardly any resemblance of Goa being free and progressive State today in Colamb. In fact it was more like Pakistan under emergency with four police jeeps patrolling mining site with over 50 policemen including women in police force inhaling dangerous mining dust in exchange for possibly diesel and few peanuts from Fomentos. Police were expecting the villagers to confront them today and had come with all the necessary preparation after one days rest yesterday when mine was kept closed. However it is unnecessary expenditure and burden on the State resources to provide such a large number of Police personnel for this purpose unless mining company treats Goa Police as its private security. Going by the turn of the events so far this is indeed is the case that needs urgent attention from Public who pay taxes to the State and demand accountability as to why State government is letting this show go on. Though Police could not arrest any one so far till late night, they did show remarkable swiftness in searching the houses of the villagers; three times cops made trips to the Peoples’ houses. The police action in this case of acting against the citizens of India empowered wilh all the constitutional civil liberties and fundamental rights is indeed in sharp contrast to the way same Goa police treated the matter of murder through mine collapse of over 5 people by the mining company in Tollem, Sanguem in 2006. Police must make it public as to how many people has been charged and arrested and tried for murder? Why this case was hushed up without a single arrest? Which are the people against whom FIR has been registered? Why police are acting lethargic in arresting people in this case of Tollem Mine collapse? The answer is simple and straight forward: it is precisely because the culprit is the same: Fomento mining company. And of coarse we know the old saying ‘One who pays the bagpiper calls the tune’. Why is this state of Goa Police? Mining industry in Goa operates its way with long chain of frauds. Take this example of Colamb itself: the chief logic of the police and the mining company is that it has got environmental clearance from the Environment ministry in Delhi. This clearance is based on the public hearing form this particular mining site that was held couple of years ago without any awareness of the same amongst public in Colamb and the affected people. And the site of this public hearing was over 30 kms away from the mining site, in Margao. This is a fraud by which Fomento mining company tricked environment ministry to give environmental clearance. It is another matter that Delhi is treating Goa as its colony for the exploitation of mineral wealth with scant respect to Peoples’ expression even in the mandatory public hearings: the case of Sarvan mining of Zantye mining company is the case in focus. The appeal here is to the individual
[Goanet] Save Colamb from mining terrorism!
Gawda, Kunbi, Velip and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) yesterday marched through the streets of Panjim in a silent protest in Solidarity with People from Colamb, Sanguem, Goa. Around 120 people from different parts of Goa participated in the march. It was organised to create awareness about possible anhilation of the Colamb village from the Map of Goa if the mining industry is allowed to let loose in the village. The banner in a protest procession blarred "Save Colamb from mining terrorism". This is important as Fomentos are carring on the mining trade in Colamb against the wishes of local adivasis under police protection. State of Goa and Unioun of India are collaborating with mining company's act of terrorism with thier active support. For more details log on the colamb people's protest log on to www.mandgoa.blogspot.com After the protest march group then participated in the book release function of the CSE publication on mining "Rich Lands, Poor People" in Panjim. Warmly, Seby _ Post free property ads on Yello Classifieds now! www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=221
[Goanet] Ambaulim Intruzz: Interface between Adivasi faith and Christian Faith
For detail text and picture visit below links: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/02/ambaulim-intruzz-interface-between.html -- www.mandgoa.blogspot.com MAND An adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) "Hari Smriti" 381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas, Goa. Pincode: 403 110 _ Tried the new MSN Messenger? It’s cool! Download now. http://messenger.msn.com/Download/Default.aspx?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Fomentos screening plant plans foiled in Colamb
Colamb villagers in Sanguem, Goa sent back two trucks full of machinery for its screeining plant at mining lease of Hiralal Khodidas TC No. 06/49. Trucks bearing Karnatak number plates KA34 8127 and another one KA34 7026 was intercepted by alert villagers at 1 pm today and forced to retreat. There were around 40 staff of the mining company along with the trucks when group of around 100 villagers blocked its entry to the road leading to Fomento mining site. Villagers are protesting operation of this open cast iron ore mine as it is negatively affected their agriculture. But all this does not matter to Fomentos: all that matters is quick bucks and nothing else. In the meanwhile Gawda Kunbi Velip and Dhangar Federation(GAKUVED) today served 48 hours notice to the State administration to demolish the illegal weigh bridge constructed by Fomentos in forest land in Colamb. GAKUVED also served 48 hours notice to Chief Conservator of Forest to stop illegal road inside Colamb Forest to facilitate transpotation of iron ore for Fomentos. In case of failure of the department to do so then GAKUVED will exercise the Constitutional Fundamental Duty to protect Forests and environment and take suitable action. -- www.mandgoa.blogspot.com MAND An adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) "Hari Smriti" 381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas, Goa. Pincode: 403 110 _ Tried the new MSN Messenger? It’s cool! Download now. http://messenger.msn.com/Download/Default.aspx?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Fomentos employ Goa Police to terrorise villagers in Colamb, Sanguem
Believe it or not Goa Police has gone frustrated and berserk at Colamb villagers stubborn resistance to Fomento mining company. At around 3.00 pm today two police Jeeps caught hold of one villagers Agnelo Dias from Kevona, Colamb in Sanguem Taluka, put him inside on of the two jeeps and kicked him with shoes on at upper portion of his thigh. There are around 10 policemen in two Police jeeps surrounded by around 100 Colamb villagers in Kevona, Colamb when the last reports came in. Villagers are questioning the Polie in their villagers on Goa Polices' act of terror. against the villagers. The police frustration is understandable considering it has been providing police protection to disastrous Fomento open cast iron mine bearing TC. No. 06/49 in the name of Hiralal Khodidas. Villagers had attacked this mine on January 21 2008 and subsequently company operated the mine with Police protection between January 23 2008 up to January 29 2008. State intelligence agency CID tried its level best to instigate the villagers to attack the mine again so that villagers could be arrested en mass a la Saleli. However People proved smarter and did not attack the mining company. Instead Gawda, Kunbi, Velip and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) led the silent morcha on January 28 2008 in Panjim and hogged publicity on front page of Marathi newspapers with its banner "Save Colamb from Mining Terrorism". Transportation of Ore is being done through forest areas illegally and for this GAKUVED has served 48 hours deadline on Chief Conservator Forest. 48 hours deadline is also served to carry demolition of weigh bridge illegally constructed in forest land at Colamb by Fomentos. Terror tactic of Goa Police today is going on in Colamb under this background in Colamb, Sanguem. Shame Goa Police Shame! You'll have stooped so low and hit Agnelo Dias below belt and its repercussions will be felt for a long time to come for this State of Goa. We have not yet forgotten as to how PI Sammy Tavares was used by same Fometo ten years ago to Kick and humiliate Surya Sawant of Cacra nagrik Vikas Samiti at Goa Velha Police Station. This ongoing clash is between the citizens who pay taxes to State, Police who are paid and maintained by public taxes by kick below belt very people who legally pay them, and between the mining company that is well know for kicking people's stomach's. It would be indeed pleasant for Goa as well as Goa Police if it resists temptation from mining companies to undertake to do their dirty job. It is hoped that Police authorities - IPG, DGP, SP (South), Home Minister, Chief Minister, and Governor Jamir take note of this and direct Goa Police to behave themselves once and for all. For People principal enemies are not Police but mining company Fomento at present stage. Please do not behave silly Goa Police. Goa Police withdraw immediately from Colamb now! We don't pay taxes to harrass and terrorise Goa's common People. Don't be a shield for Fomentos. Shame Goa Police! Shame!! Shame!!! -- www.mandgoa.blogspot.com MAND An adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) "Hari Smriti" 381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas, Goa. Pincode: 403 110 _ Post ads for free - to sell, rent or even buy.www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=186
[Goanet] Dusk Richardson on her exposure visit to Goa adivasi villages
Dusk richardson, a student of Anthropology and Sociology from Melbourne University, Mlbourne, Australia was in Goa in second week of December 2007. Here is here narrative piece - click link below: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/02/dusk-richardson-reports-on-her-exposure.html Seby _ Post free property ads on Yello Classifieds now! www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=221
[Goanet] Goa government increases security to Colamb Fomento Mine
Sensing trouble from villagers Goa government increased police security for the Fomento mining company operating in Colamb, Sanguem to the peril of the village agriculture. Today morning from 8.00 am onwards one bus and three jeeps load of police (around 40 police personnel) are forced to inhale deadly dust at Hiralal and Khodidas mine bearing TC. No. 06/49. While villagers are fighting to protect their livelihood sources State Government of Goa is determine to reduce the villagers to beggars. There is something drastically gone wrong in the heads of those ruling Goa today. The largely adivasi population of Colamb has decided to intensify thier agitation by adopting various methods to shut down the mining company. Kicks of Police force they received yesterday cannot silence thier voices nor thier resolve to struggle with all thier might. Police yesterday could escape with apologies for beating up villagers. but is high time that some heads in the Police department roll. ASI Desai must be penalized for his irresponsible behaviour. More importantly mining company who has directed police officers to behave violently must resist from this temptation as it is only going to back fire at the mining industry in Goa and particularly fomentos. Goa government must direct police force not to act as paid agents of fometo mining company any longer as people are now vigilant and revoke police protection accorded to the mining company against the will of the Colamb People. Hats off to Colamb People for forcing Police to admit its fault and forcing them to publicly apologize yesterday evening. -- www.mandgoa.blogspot.com MAND An adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) "Hari Smriti" 381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas, Goa. Pincode: 403 110 _ Post ads for free - to sell, rent or even buy.www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=186
[Goanet] Mining lease Map of Goa
Here is the mining lease Map of Goa. See for yourself mining disaster in Goa. Mines are particularly located in Adivasi localities. These leases were granted by Portuguese colonial government that was forced out of Goa through army action on 19th December 1961. Colonial legacy however remains intact thanks to India's central governments and Goa State governments that are routinely manipulated by mining companies. These leases are upheld by 'Independent India'. http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/02/mining-lease-map-of-goa.html Sebastian Rodrigues _ Post free property ads on Yello Classifieds now! www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=221
[Goanet] Beware: Black Gold will turn their future black
An account of the impact of iron ore mining on the Tribal Communities in Goa by Mihir Bhonsle of NCAS, Pune. Read more at the below links: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/02/beware-black-gold-will-turn-their.html Seby _ Post free property ads on Yello Classifieds now! www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=220
[Goanet] Fomentos heading for another confrontation in Colamb, Sanguem?
Even as Goa Bench of Bombay High Court admitted case against Fometo mining company yesterday March 10 2008, today from morning itself the company is trying its level best to beging transportation of Ore with Police protection. Two jeeps load of policemen were transported to the Colamb mining site. Villagers have rushed to the site with their banners and placards of protests. For the past few months the mining company is blocked from transporting the Ore due the villagers protests and with co-operation from Forest department. In the meanwhile you may access the pictures of Goa Police providing protection to foemto mining company on thier mining site in Colamb mine at http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/03/fomentos-mining-with-police-protection.html Sebastian Rodrigues _ Tried the new MSN Messenger? It’s cool! Download now. http://messenger.msn.com/Download/Default.aspx?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Ambaulim Intruzz Videos
Videos of Ambaulim Intruzz available online. Please click the following links to get the beats from Ambaulim. http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/03/ambaulim-intruzz-videos.html Sebastian Rodrigues _ Tried the new MSN Messenger? It’s cool! Download now. http://messenger.msn.com/Download/Default.aspx?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Colamb villagers force-stop Fomentos' mining transport
Colamb villagers one again foiled attempts of the Fomento mining company to begin trnasportation of Ore. Yestesterday March 11 2008 was another testing day for the Colamb Villagers in their battle for survival and dignified living. Mining company mobilized two jeep loands of policemen in an attempt to bulldoze the opposiotion even as the Goa Bench of Bombay High Court has admitted the Case by Rama Velip, Dr. Avadooth Prabhudessai and Goa Foundation. For more text and pictures click http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/03/colamb-villagers-force-stop-fomentos.html Sebastian Rodrigues _ Post free property ads on Yello Classifieds now! www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=220
[Goanet] Colamb mining: Two arrested,Truck and Jeep ceased
A truck and a jeep trying to transport Iron ore from Fomentos mine in Colamb was ceased today evening by the State Forest department after a group of around 80 villagers alerted the officials attached to Curdi Forest range in Sanguem Taluka. Early morning today mining company allegedly broke open the barbed wire fencing put up by the Forest department and opened a road through Forest. Mining company however tried to begin transport only at around 5 pm. The villagers who were keeping vigil on the site immediately rushed and blocked the road and alerted the Curdi Range Forest officials. 5 member team for the Curdi range forest as well as Jeep load of Police from Sanguem Police station landed on the spot by 5.30 pm. Police and Forest officials then took control of the situation and ceased truck bearing registration number GA02 T8304 as well as the Jeep with registration number GA 09 U1999. Both the drivers too were arrested for violating Forest laws. It may be noted that Goa Bench of Bombay High Court has admitted the petition of Rama Velip and others on March 10 2008 seeking directions to close down this mine with TC No. 06/1949 due to disastrous fallout on their agriculture and natural water sources. The next hearing is to up for hearing on March 24 2008; Fomentos however are trying to forcefully transport the Ore before that date. The company is indeed walking on narrow path of contempt of Court. Sebastian Rodrigues www.mandgoa.blogspot.com _ Post ads for free - to sell, rent or even buy.www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=186
[Goanet] Fometos Wheel Loader sent back in Colamb
Wheel Loader of Fometos mining company today was sen back when it came to clear the illegal road through Forest. Women of the village then met the mining company manager and served strong warning signal in case it tries to resume transporting the Ore though Forest. Villagers here are exercising their constitutional duty to protect Environment and Forest. Mining company is trying to bulldoze its way over the Colamb villagers even as the Goa Bench of Bombay High Court has admitted the Petition in this regard on March 10 2008. Yesterday Forest department and Sanguem Police had stopped mining company from transporting the Ore and arrested two persons along with one truck and a Jeep seized. There is long drawn battle going on in Colamb over the destruction of Forest and agriculture due to mining industry. There are 23 mining leases in Colamb alone covering 1510 hectares of land. Total village land is 1929 hectares. This is a situation for large number of villages in Sanguem and Quepem Talukas. Protests of the villagers are only rising with passing of every day. Sebastian Rodrigues www.mandgoa.blogspot.com _ Post free property ads on Yello Classifieds now! www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=220
[Goanet] Today's new uploads on Mand Goa blog
Hello! Please visit new uploads on Mand Goa blog: 1. Fomentos do it again! Releases mining silted water into village!! http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/08/fomentos-do-it-again-releases-mining.html 2. Dempo's illegal mining in Bicholim http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/08/dempos-illegal-mining-in-bicholim.html 3. GAKUVED at People's SAARC in Colombo http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/08/gakuved-at-peoples-saarc-in-colombo.html 4. Colamb Public Hearings official minutes http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/08/colamb-public-hearings-official-minutes.html 5. GOAMAP launched! http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/08/goamap-launched.html Warmly, Seby _ Chose your Life Partner? Join MSN Matrimony FREE http://www.shaadi.com/msn/matrimony.php
[Goanet] Benaulim Protests online
August 10, 2008 was one more historical day in the life of Benaulim village. Our dictatorial Sarpanch Carmelin Fernanades called for the meeting to discuss the pending problems with builder wanting to promote mega projects in our village. She circulated invitation to public to come for the meeting as well as brought in 2 buses of Policemen some in full fledged riot gears and armed with riffles Read more with pictures on Benaulim Village Action Committe. http://bvacbenaulim.blogspot.com/ Sebastian Rodrigues _ Searching for the best deals on travel? Visit MSN Travel. http://msn.coxandkings.co.in/cnk/cnk.do
[Goanet] Dempos releases mining silt into Bicholim River
Goa's most famous corporate group that is know for promotion of Soccer - Dempo mining Corporation - cares a hoot for Goa's rivers. With its rampant mining violating all the laws including the conditions in its Environmental Clearance order and continuously releasing its mining water into the Bicholim river. For pictures and further text click on the link below: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/08/dempos-releases-mining-silt-into.html Warmly, Seby _ Chose your Life Partner? Join MSN Matrimony FREE http://www.shaadi.com/msn/matrimony.php
[Goanet] Goodbye Public Hearings! Now Goa is In dia’s internal Colony!!
Best Teachers’ awardee for 2008 at the appellate authority in Delhi and that in the meanwhile that has prevented commissioning of the project for over one year there by depriving heavy revenue to the company considering that the per tone cost of Ore at International market is over Rs.80 thousand. That works out to Rs.8 Crore per smallest barge of 1000 tonnes and Rs.20 Crore for bigger barge of 2,500 tonnes that navigates under the Mandovi and Zuari bridges. Mining industry can hardly afford such lethal delays in their digging, washing and selling missions on Goa’s lush green mountains. On the othersider the public discontent against mining is increasing with the passage of every new day. The villages affected with mining are networking amongst themselves and mining industry is clearly going to be under increasing pressure in the future. The recent Public Hearings in Quepem and Sanguem talukas has made it very difficult to mobilize support in its favour. The news about Indian Ministry of Environment and Forests got published in Goa in this context. Mining industry think tanks that cares a hoot for people of Goa and its Environment did sense all this, it did anticipate increasing public hostility to its ecological crimes on Goa and that’s why Dempos and other mining companies has opted for convincing Environment Ministry in various ways – legitimate and illegitimate - in doing away with the need for fresh EIA studies and holding of fresh Public Hearings and getting Environmental Clearance for the life of the project. Implications: Goa as India’s Internal Colony There are several implications of this ‘Life long Environmental Clearance’. In the first place along with the mining industry it is the Ministry of Environment and Forest that has clearly exposed its nexus with each other. Henceforth, increasing public anger is likely to get directed- along with the mining industry – towards Ministry of Environment and Forests. Secondly, legitimacy the Ministry of Environment and Forest as well as State of India to uphold constitutional duty as well as directive principle stands muzzled by its own action to support the marauding mining industry in Goa. Ministry of Environment and Forests is answerable to the People of Goa as to what crimes they have committed for which they are being environmentally ruined? The mindset with which it has given life long clearances to the mining companies in Goa is a colonial mindset. Goa is fast being converted into internal colony of India ruled through briefcases from mining industry – the same way Portuguese rule Goa during its last 30 years from 1930s to 1950s ending in 1961. Portuguese gave patrimonial rights to mining companies. It was and is life long too, Life long of all future generations of the mining companies. Indian government though its Environment and Forest Ministry’s licence to plunder Goa’s mineral wealth to handful of families at the cost of its people, agriculture, water bodies, forests and fresh air has exposed itself as internally Colonial State; it will remain so until it revokes lifelong Environmental Clearances granted to Dempos and other mining companies in Goa. If the Central government does not revoke its decisions then we may as well witness anti-Colonial movement emerging in Goa in future. Sebastian Rodrigues http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/ _ Searching for the best deals on travel? Visit MSN Travel. http://msn.coxandkings.co.in/cnk/cnk.do
[Goanet] Action Alert:Rajendra Kerker, Prerna Bindra held hostage on Fomentos Pissurlem mines
According to the reports just received at 4.55 pm today Goa's noted environmental activist Rajendra Kerker has been held hostage along with Journalist Prerna Bindra of National Newspaper. Both of them have been surrounded on the Fomento mines in Pissurlem near Honda, Sattari taluka in North Goa. They were on a visit there when the some people believed to be the employees of Fomentos' ILPL mining company have surrounded them and are not allowing them to move out. Please contact Valpoi Police Inspector Shivram Vaigankar at his cell number: 9823225883 and also call up Valpoi Police station at 0832-2374255 and ask Police to act fast to release both - Rajendra Kerker as well as Prerna Bindra. Shame Fomentos, Shame on your company and mining practices. Warmly, Seby _ Chose your Life Partner? Join MSN Matrimony FREE http://www.shaadi.com/msn/matrimony.php
[Goanet] Salgaocar-Alemao nexus targets Selaulim Dam
Our worst fears on water security are coming true, Public Hearing has just concluded today to dig the earth for mining barely 30 to 50 meters from Selaulim water dam in Curdi-Curpem villages. Today’s Public Hearing is one more in the series of serious attempt by the mining industry and Central government to dismember Goa and bleed it to death. Today’s Public Hearing involved T.C. No. 60/1952 of S. Kantilal Pvt. Ltd at Asni Dongor Iron Ore Mine covering Survey numbers 27, 37, 38 and 39 in Curdi village of which survey number 39 is private reserved forest identified under Sawant and Karapurkar Committee. Survey number 2 of Curpem village is also within the jurisdiction of this mine and listed as Government forest. Total land to go under mining here is 46 hectares. Local sarpanch of Vaddem Panchayat was pathetic in his intervention, he demanded Rs.300/- per month per family as contribution from the mining company. Besides this he also suggested introducing 'hafta' system to generate revenue for the Vaddem Panchayat. 'Hafta' system is integral part of parallel economy based on extortions. There are several People who opposed mining proposal, Rama Velip of GAKUVED was one of them. You may well imagine the alarming state of affairs with regard to Salaulim water dam if the nefarious nexus between the two MLAs of Goa Legislative Assembly Anil Salgaokar and Joaquim Alemao are allowed to succeed in their nefarious designs to disrupt water supply in South Goa including cities of Margao and Vasco. Sebastian Rodrigues _ Searching for the best deals on travel? Visit MSN Travel. http://msn.coxandkings.co.in/cnk/cnk.do
[Goanet] Westwinds captures Benaulim's footpaths!
Hello! Here are new picture uploads on http://bvacbenaulim.blogspot.com/ 1. Benaulim Hunger Strike against Mega Projects http://bvacbenaulim.blogspot.com/2008/08/benaulim-hunger-strike-against-mega.html 2. Westwinds captures Benaulim's footpaths! http://bvacbenaulim.blogspot.com/2008/08/westwinds-captures-benaulims-footpaths.html Warmly, Seby _ Chose your Life Partner? Join MSN Matrimony FREE http://www.shaadi.com/msn/matrimony.php
[Goanet] Rajendra Kerker, Prerna Bindra win back freedom from Fomentos
After suffering 2 hours ordeal of wrongful confinement at Pissurlem Fomento's supposedly clandestine mining operations Goa's noted Environmentalist Rajendra Kerker and Journalist from National Press - Tehelka - on Goa visit Prerna Bindra freed themselves last evening. Both of them were on a Fomento mining visit yesterday when securities intercepted them while taking photographs at around 3.40 pm. It is not yet clear as to which nefarious aspect of its Pissurlem mine that Fomentos was preventing from Public glare: Is it the fact that it is operating this mine on government lands? Is it that it was re-started after a long period of shut down with the influence of MLA and Health Minister Vishwajit Rane? Or does it worried that ugly reality of Pissurlem mining for over half century would open new Pandora's box? Whichever may be the concern, one thing is clear that Fomentos are scared of Cameras! As soon as Prerna Bindra and Rajendra Kerker started taking Pictures security charged at them. Immediately 1 of them came and then 10 and final number of security was 30! All to prevent two people from taking pictures of the lying Iron Ore. Fometos response with its security was like it was trying to cover up murder secrets with investigations on freshly buried corpses! Oh yes, Fomentos perhaps has awaken to the fact that its mining practices in Pissurlem, Advalpal, Colamb and all other mines is actually equivalent of murder. Murder of water sources, murder of agriculture, murder of forest, Murder of people through inflicting lung diseases, many other variety of murders. It is happy occasion that Fomentos have finally woken up to is behaviour and actually want to actively cover up and hide from the press and public gaze through cameras! We wish Fomentos all the very best in it's adventure to cover up and may nest time the number of security increase by at least, one more zero - it may increase from 30 to 300 per mine in Goa, for you have so much to hide! Around 4.55 pm Action Alert was circulated on Goa Net asking people to call up Police station in Valpoi and cell contact of the Valpoi PI Vaigankar when Kerker and Bidra was still in custody of the Fomentos in Pissurlem. After public focus and frantic phone calls to police station, both of them including their driver was rescued at 5.40 pm when the Fomentos was forced to open their closed gates. Then they were led by police to Valpoi Police station and they were there till 6.40 pm. There Company gave in written complaint of trespass against Kerker and Bindra, police accepted the complaint but yet to register the same. Prerna gave written complaint of indecent behaviour towards her by Fomentos staff. Valpoi Police Station was continuously being contacted by People all over Goa and even abroad. Police on the phone were repeatedly denying the charge of wrongful restraining Kerker and Bindra. Their denial is understandable considering the immense pressure they were under from Cidade de Goa as well from MLA Rane. Surely, we do not know what Prerna Bindra is going to write in the paper that writes for, but your brave fight in Pissurlem is already an inspiration to us, for you along with Rajendra Kerkar have refused the pressure of 30 male security and management to hand over your cameras to their power and mights! Struggle continues!! Sebastian Rodrigues http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/08/rajendra-kerker-prerna-bindra-win-back.html _ >From salsa lessons to filmy gossip, news to music concerts - watch it all on >MSN Video http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Mining disaster are normal for Fomentos
Its hard to digest yet we are forced to; for Fomento mining company, mining disasters are normal and a part of its trade. A statement from Lithoferro mining company that has mining lease of collapsed Advalpal mine has said in Herald today that 12 benches collapse of Advalpal mine operated by Fomentos is internal matter of the mining company. The actual operation of the mine is carried with grave threat to the safety, security and economy of the village of Advalpal in Bicholim Taluka. The management sitting at 5 star hotel Cidade de Goa can hardly understand even a fraction of a threat to the village. This is not the first time that the Fomentos are involved in disaster as policy; in June 2000 its mine - the same one on when it held Environmentalist Rajendra Kerker and Journalist Prerna Bindra as hostage for two hours for clicking photographs of the ore and released after public pressure yesterday evening - collapsed sending dangerous mining silt into People's houses. With that disaster Pissurlem was flooded and mining debris - meter thick - deposited in houses including in kitchens and bedrooms of Pissurlem villagers. Yet no debris reached to Cideade de Goa, its swimming pools are yet to witness mining silt. Then in Colamb this year itself on June 12, 2008 Fomentos methodically released mining silt in People's agriculture supervised by its site manager and security officers. Fomentos achieved this disastrous feat again on August 09, 2008 by releasing silt into People's agriculture. With this track record is yet to become clearer as to whom Fomentos are aiming to bluff. Hardly anyone in Goa is now susceptible to swallow Fomentos august bluff. Never mind let's wish all the best to the corporate for its bluffs; for cat while drinking milk from the utensil closes her eyes with the belief that nobody watches her. Fomentos possibly believe the same: nobody watches and understands its mega bluffs. We can never let any mining company to make disasters as normal practice of operations. if it does so then they have no right to operate the mine. It has to be shut down once for all. Sebastian Rodrigues http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/08/mining-disaster-are-normal-for-fomentos.html _ >From salsa lessons to filmy gossip, news to music concerts - watch it all on >MSN Video http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Ponsalimol Rock Carvings under mining threat
Ponsalimol Rock Carvings in Rivona Panchayat jurisdiction has come under fresh threat from mining industry. The site is preyed by mining companies; on the one side is existing mine in operation bearing T.C. Number 14/1952 of Badruddin Mavani but operated by Radha Timblo covering 100 hectares of land that is involved in dumping of mining overburden on the Kushavati river banks under the direct approval of its all the illegalities by the Mines Minister who is also the current Chief Minister of Goa. The second mines that is threatening is presently not in operation but has pit of its own. It was in operation till 10 years ago. It belongs to Damodar Mangaljis bearing T.C. No. 84/1953 covering 82 hectares. The company has put in place its boundary with new coloured poles that signifies the preparation of the company to re-start the mining here in near future. Mining industry hardly care for the Rock carvings and Historical Heritage. All that it cares for is profits, that too profits at all costs - human, heritage, culture, mountains, water, agriculture, bio diversity, settlements, wildlife and number of other priceless and valued things Read the complete posting with Picture at the below links: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/08/ponsalimol-rock-carvings-under-mining.html Warmly, Seby _ Searching for the best deals on travel? Visit MSN Travel. http://msn.coxandkings.co.in/cnk/cnk.do
[Goanet] Benaulim Public-Police confrontations begins
According to just received information from Benaulim suggests that Public-Police confrontation has began. Todays meeting at Panchayat Hall was called by the Benaulim Villagers Action Comittee (BVAC) to protest against the calling off of the Gram Sabha two days ago. Two bus load of police personnel from Goa Armed Police are stationed in Benaulim to intimidate the agitating Benaulim villagers since 8 am this morning to prevent people from organising a protest meeting public meeting. Till 10.30am today neither Secretary nor Sarpanch had turned up at the Panchayat. This signals massive scandal in the allocation of licences to the builders violating existing laws and conventions of democracy to favour builders lobby. It is indeed truly amazing to note that the Goa Goverment, and most of its institutions are speedily transforming themselves into agents of real estate lobby. Panchayat Minister Babu Azgaonkar few days ago had single out Benualim for criticism in the Goa Legislative Asembly for blocking mega projects promoting commercial housing promting sharp response from BVAC. Benaulim struggle in defence of village land and identity is not showing any signs of subsiding and with deployment of force at the instance of bulders lobby only going to intensify it further. Sebastian Rodrigues _ Searching for the best deals on travel? Visit MSN Travel. http://msn.coxandkings.co.in/cnk/cnk.do
[Goanet] The lost grace of Grace Constructions of Benaulim
This posting is demostration of effectiveness of Internet Blogging! Portion of Grace Construction demolished after the Blog expose by Benaulim Villagers Action Comittee. Have a look here: http://bvacbenaulim.blogspot.com/2008/08/lost-grace-of-grace-constructions-of.html Warmly, Seby _ Searching for the best deals on travel? Visit MSN Travel. http://msn.coxandkings.co.in/cnk/cnk.do
[Goanet] Westwinds Benaulim violations: Some more pictures
Westwinds, a construction firm has also been in the forefront of blocking tradtional pathways of banaulekars. Here are some more pictures of the project that belongs to Builder in Margao who claims himself to be defender of Goa, Writer, Secular, proponent of Konkni language, had been in the forefront of number of movements; has now turned himself into oppressor of Benaulim and is advocating use of Police force to bulldoze massive uprisings in Goa against mega protest. Interest of Goa has been replaced with interest of his profits. After all people change... Click for pictures posted by Benaulim Villagers Action Comittee below: http://bvacbenaulim.blogspot.com/2008/08/westwinds-benaulim-violations-some-more.html Warmly, Seby _ Chose your Life Partner? Join MSN Matrimony FREE http://www.shaadi.com/msn/matrimony.php
[Goanet] Micon Realtors' coastal paradise is Benaulim's nightmare
Benaulim villagers are fighting village Panchayat over various irregularities over granting of constructions permissions by Cana-Benaulim Panchayat. Micon Realtors are right at the centre BVAC target. For more pictures and text click below links: http://bvacbenaulim.blogspot.com/2008/08/micon-realtors-coastal-paradise-is.html Warmly, Seby _ Chose your Life Partner? Join MSN Matrimony FREE http://www.shaadi.com/msn/matrimony.php
[Goanet] Goa Police as most unwanted guests in Benaulim
Hello! Here are two new uploads on BVAC Benaulim blog with pictures and text at http://bvacbenaulim.blogspot.com/ 1. Goa Police as most unwanted guests in Benaulim http://bvacbenaulim.blogspot.com/2008/09/goa-police-as-most-unwanted-guests-in.html 2. Don't insult Benaulim Mr. Panchayat Minister! http://bvacbenaulim.blogspot.com/2008/09/dont-insult-benaulim-mr-panchayat.html Warmly, Seby _ Search for videos of Bollywood, Hollywood, Mollywood and every other wood, only on Live.com http://www.live.com/?scope=video&form=MICOAL
[Goanet] The Micon Realtors scandal in Benaulim
Hello! Here are new uploads with text and pictures on http://bvacbenaulim.blogspot.com 1. The Micon Realtors scandal in Benaulim http://bvacbenaulim.blogspot.com/2008/09/micon-realtors-scandal-in-benaulim.html 2. Booster dose from Sundarlal Bahuguna in Benaulim http://bvacbenaulim.blogspot.com/2008/09/booster-dose-from-sundarlal-bahuguna-in.html Warmly, Seby _ Searching for the best deals on travel? Visit MSN Travel. http://in.msn.com/coxandkings
[Goanet] 'Goa Goa Gone'
Hello! Here is documetary on mining in Goa called 'Goa Goa Gone' by Kurush Canteenwallah: http://infochangeindia.org/Infochange-documentary.html Warmly, Seby _ Searching for weekend getaways? Try Live.com http://www.live.com/?scope=video&form=MICOAL
[Goanet] Its monsoon, yet Sirgao wells are dry due to mining
Monsoons are still to get over in Goa, it has been raining heavily over the past few months here, springs are flowing and wells are full to the joy of one and all. Yet this is not the case in Goa's mining belt like Bicholim taluka's Sirgao village. The village wells were seen empty and springs has no water to ooze out. One of the Senior villagers is Vasant Gaonkar "If our wells are dry in rains, what do you expect to happen in other months?" "Our ancestors settled here due to water availability several years ago. Mining now has made our village inhabitable." Quips Gaonkar. Gaonkar has been one of the vehement voices against the destructive mining industry that is manifested in the form of three mining leases that operate in this village - Dempos, Chowgules and Bandekars. "They were told not to disrupt water level from January to June 2 year ago. We never had water shortage before. But today 52 natural springs of the village has gone dry. Only one has water. When I settled here in 1964 there was plenty of water in Sirgao. Now if the mine are closed then we may get water after 25 years. Mining cannot be allowed at the cost of village. Our village has 70 people that are employed in mining activities while 250 people have lost their agricultural livelihood. And all of our 73 mines in Sirgao has gone dry." Speaks out Gaonkar. The mining leases that operate in Sirgao are Bandekar operate T.C. 4/1949, Chowgules operate two mines 05/1949 and 13/1949 while Dempos operate T.C. no. 15/1941 that covers villages of Sirgao as well as Mulgao. When Chowgule mines were visited by me on September 06 2008 they were operating 4 water pumps of 190 horse power inside the mining pit. The depths of water table in Chowgules as well as Bandekar mines of Sirgao was 16 meters below Sea level. The actual depth of the mining pit is still deeper. This is yet another story of mining tragedy in Goa. To believe you must visit Sirgao and see mining disaster unfolding right under the the nose of Goa government that has gone blind, deaf and dump long time ago. Funeral of Goa is on cards very soon, ghosts from mining belt once get let loose will hound the State authorities like never before. End of water is end of life of planet, the point is what is our choice: life or death? if you choose life then support Sirgao's struggling people, support it to bounce back to life, demand Sirgao mines be closed down forever for nature and its once majestic life supporting mountains now needs time to heal. You will understand this if you feel mountain's feel. I do. Sebastian Rodrigues http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/09/its-monsoon-yet-sirgao-wells-are-dry.html _ Searching for the best deals on travel? Visit MSN Travel. http://in.msn.com/coxandkings
[Goanet] Goa Education department releases mafia on RTI applicant Durgadas Gaonkar
RTI applicant Durgandas Gaonkar is faced with mafia threats released by Goa's education department. Durgadas Gaonkar is a president of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) and this is his first letter under Right to Information Act that was devised to bring about transparency in the governance process and to checkmate rising corruption in the Government functioning. Durgadas first filed application under RTI as the president of GAKUVED but the education department rejected the application on the ground that President of any Organisation is not legally entitled to file the application. Then he filed again as individual but was rejected on the ground that it is not caring Court stamp fees. Then on Saturday September 19 a four wheeler Maruti car landed near his house in Dhulapi with man and a woman in it doing various inquiries on Durgadas and his family as well as his profession. Then on September 20 at around 7.15 pm a man walked into Durgadas's Panjim venue and threaten Durgadas to withraw his RTI application in education department within next 5 days. Durgadas refused to do so. Then Durgadas was warned of dire consequences if he does not withraw the application. Durgadas fearlessly told him to do whatever he wants to do immidiately. Durgadas' hang out place - Goa Store - opposite Cafe Bhonsle was visited by 3 member mafia team on morning of September 22, 2008 but Durgadas was not there. This visit was meant to instill fear in Durgadas. In the meanwhile GAKUVED team that is spread all over the State of Goa has taken strong note of the mafia released by the Goa State Education department and demanded to know as to how mafia got the information of the RTI letters with the Ministry. There is clearly nefarious nexus between the Education department and Mafia in order to cover up the deep rooted corruption and irregularities. GAKUVED has launched the campaign to defend the right to defend freedom of speech and expression and condemns Goa State Education Ministry for their mafia links. The campaign that will unfold in the days to come includes requesting citizens to fight mafia assault on freedom of speech and expression in the form of pressure tactics on Durgadas Gaonkar making large number of applications to the State Education Ministry as it pricks mafia in their uncomfortable zone. We need to rescue constitution of India from Goa's hoodlums that are threatening ordinary citizen's right to expression. Please go throught the letter below that attracted mafia attack and file as many RTI as possible. Please include your own dates on the applications in your names. Citizens of India from all over India are requested to file this RTI in your names. Come let's join hands to defeat mafia in Goa! From: Durgadas G. Gaonkar, 381, "HARI SMRITI" Dhulapi, Corlim, Ihas - Goa. Date: 15-09-2008 To, The Public Information Officer, Asst. Director of Education (Planning), Directorate of Education, Panaji - Goa. Sub: Request for Information under Right to Information Act, 2005 Sir, This is to request you to furnish the following information under Right to Information Act, 2005. 1) Certified copy letter No.DV/HSS72/08-09 dated 03-06-2008 2) Certified copy of letter No.DE/HSS/PLG/294/pt. V(2)/474 3) Certified copy of the Minutes of Departmental Selection Committee selecting Mrs. Sebastiana Dias as Tr. Grade-I 4) Certified copy of Proforma I, II, III, IV & V sent vide letter No.D.V.H.S.S./118/08-09 dated 24-06-08. The necessary fees as required shall be paid. Kindly do the needful at the earliest convenience. Thanking you, Yours faithfully, sd/- (Durgadas Gaonkar) Sebastian Rodrigues http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/09/goa-education-department-releases-mafia.html _ Want to explore the world? Visit MSN Travel for the best deals. http://in.msn.com/coxandkings
[Goanet] Fomentos back at the Police tricks in Colamb
As the monsoon recedes in Goa and mining season begins, Fomentos are again to their old tricks against Colamb People resisting disappearance of their village from the Map of Goa. According to the Goa Police sources Fomentos have pressurized Goa police to arrest of the villagers from Colamb based on the complaints filed by the mining company last year and this year... To read more click below http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/10/fomentos-back-at-police-tricks-in.html Warmly, Seby _ Search for videos of Bollywood, Hollywood, Mollywood and every other wood, only on Live.com http://www.live.com/?scope=video&form=MICOAL
[Goanet] Goa Police-Fomento nexus yet again!
According to the reports received 4.50 pm today from Quepem Police station 9 people are arrested at the instance of Fomentos mining company. Around 200 people are gathered outside police station are demanding their release. As expected Goa Police is serving as the reliable allly of the Fomento mining company. It is indeed shameful. Time for people of Goa to face the minng industry yet again. Sebastian Rodrigues _ Want to explore the world? Visit MSN Travel for the best deals. http://in.msn.com/coxandkings
[Goanet] Fomentos go back!
Agitation in Colamb now has taken a leaf from Indian Freedom Struggle and gave slogan this night "Fomentos go back!". The decision was taken in the light of attempt by Goa Police attached to Quepem Police station to arrest Colamb villagers on cases filed by mining companies. According to reports reaching at 7.00 pm Colamb villagers are demanding withrawl of all the cases against them and has resolved not to move away from the Police station, Quepem till Police cases are withdrawn. It may be recalled that on August 10 in a meeting held in Margao Goa Federation of Mines Affected People (GOAMAP) had passed resolution asking Fomentos to voluntarily abandon its mine in Colamb due to threats to the agriculture and depletion of water table. It is this reason that has compelled patient Colamb villagers to raise the slogan on the lines of Indian Freedom Struggle. anyway all the mining leases in Goa are colonial lgacy and that has to be done away with one day or the other. It is indeed great news to know about the the slogan "Fomentos go back!" Sebastian Rodrigues _ Search for videos of Bollywood, Hollywood, Mollywood and every other wood, only on Live.com http://www.live.com/?scope=video&form=MICOAL
[Goanet] Tug of war between Colamb villagers, Goa Police in Quepem Police station
Quepem police station has become an acutely contested space between the agitating Colamb villagers and the Goa Police. According to latest information received at 5.55 pm none of the Colamb villagers have been formally arrested. Police are trying to convince the Colamb villagers on legal necessity for law to arrest Colamb People. Actually it is a dire necessity to the badly bruised Fomento mining company to get some breath of relief. Relief to Fomentos actually means poison and destruction to Colamb and to Goa. Colamb villagers are arguing as to why Fomento mining company - Infrastructure Logistics Private Limited (ILPL) manager is not arrested in spite of written complaints by the Colamb villagers. Police say that they are processing this matter too. Villagers however are not happy with the pace of the processing by Goa Police and wonder whether Fomentos will ever brought to justice for destroying their fields and water bodies. Fomentos are being battled against not only by Colamb and Advalpal but also by villagers in Kulan near Sindadurg in Maharastra too. Gawda, Kunbi, Velip and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) President Durgadas Gaonkar has strongly condemned the arms twisting techniques on Colamb villagers and wondered if there has been coup'd tat in home ministry and Ravi Naik has been kicked out as the home minister of Goa and has been taken over by Avadooth Timblo, the Fomento mining company boss. Sebastian Rodrigues http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/10/tug-of-war-between-colamb-villagers-goa.html _ Want to explore the world? Visit MSN Travel for the best deals. http://in.msn.com/coxandkings
[Goanet] Tarcar mining terrorism in Maina, Quepem
Hello! Please visit the following links for text and pictures from Maina, Quepem mining terrorism: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/10/tarcar-mining-terrorism-in-maina-quepem.html Warmly, Seby _ Want to explore the world? Visit MSN Travel for the best deals. http://in.msn.com/coxandkings
[Goanet] Ramesh Gauns: Goa's draft Mineral Policy fails to understand mining
Hello! Here is the new posting on mandgoa blog: Goa's draft Mineral Policy fails to understand mining Click below links to read more by Ramesh Gauns http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/10/goas-draft-mineral-policy-fails-to.html Warmly, Seby _ Searching for the best deals on travel? Visit MSN Travel. http://in.msn.com/coxandkings
[Goanet] On Biases and Silences in Goa RP 2021 Interim Report
Critique of Interim Report of Goa Regional Plan 2021 prepared by Task Force in April 2008 By Sebastian Rodrigues Co-ordinator, Mand - An Adivasi Rights Resource Centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) Dulapi, Goa Volunteer, Nature, Environment, Society and Transformations (NEST) Chorao, Goa 31st May 2008 Perhaps it would have been better idea for those who concerned about Goa, its people, its nature and its mechanisms of maintaining civil liberties and defending freedom to start planning for what I call Goa Freedom Plan 2061. In 2061 we in Goa would be completing 100 years of liberation from colonial yoke of erstwhile Portuguese rulers for few centuries; in some parts of Tiswadi taluka it lasted for 451 years! Perhaps it would be better idea to thinks through the parameters of freedom: do we as people possesses capacities to preserve our privilege as free people or are we heading towards enslaving ourselves into another long period and may be even irreversible process of bondage at some power? Are our capacities to thinks, reflect, mobilize and network sufficiently expanded to take on the tide that confronts us? These thoughts come glaringly across my mind as I read through and reflect on Interim report of the Goa Regional Plan 2021 prepared by Task Force in April 2008. The plan is a well orchestrate exercise to subvert spaces of freedom currently available and in its place institute rule of Capital to enslave everyone in Goa. Let’s examine the report from this perspective here. 1. The report seeks to implement bottom up as well as top down approach simultaneously (pages 5-6). It is absolutely ridiculous that two approaches be implemented simultaneously. It is without doubt that the actual intent of the brains behind the report is top-down approach. It is only for accumulating legitimacy that the bottom-up is mentioned without any responsible position. Transferring entire responsibility to an NGO called Peaceful Society is a deliberate irresponsible escapist action on the part of the State of Goa. 2. ‘In the ultimate analysis planning is what we want to become’ is one sentence that stands out bold on page 7. The question however is that to whom does ‘we’ refer to? Does it refer to the Industry, Beaurocrats, Businessmen, professional, migrants, labour, women in margins, Adivasis, oppressed groups within Goa, Real Estates, Gamblers from all over the world; who wants to shape Goa for 2021? The report does not give any direct answer but deductions can be distilled after careful reading between the lines. ‘We’ refer to those powerful lobbies with floating capital to invest and shrink spaces of Freedom. 3. Table 4 on page 11 projects decline population of three Talukas in 2021: Bicholim, Canacona and Pernem. What are the factors that are going to be causing this decline in population is entirely missed out. What is the basis of these projections? 4. Page 12 however makes it ample clear as to the shape that is sought to be given towards transforming Goa into another metro by 2021. It audaciously presents that large number of villages will be absorbed in municipal fence and will be re-classified as municipal. It even predicts that 12.60 lakh people will live in municipal area and 5.40 lakh people will be left in Panchayat jurisdictions. Undoubtedly it is the real estate/builders are behind these projections as without rapid constructions these projections will never become a reality. 5. The same page 12 goes further to add that Pisciculture will flourish that means more breakage of Goa’s bands in Khazan lands can be expected to be actively encouraged. It also notes that cash crops like Cashew and improved paddy cultivation will flourish. Note here improved paddy cultivation is referred as cash crop and we could only expect that likes of Syngentas, Monsantos, Zuaris will not only continue but further tighten the grip on Goa’s food systems. Now you know to whose interest this report is serving? It is catering to big Indian Capitalists like Birlas and Multinational companies from all over the world. 6. The source and methodology of projection is again at the mercy of guess work on page 12. Regarding workforce it projects 54% to be in tertiary sector, 25% in Secondary sector and 21% in primary sector. The basis of this projected change is not disclosed and hence its projection methodology is defective to the core. 7. In spite of requests by some presenters, the very real threat to Goa’s coast due to rise in sea level – thanks to global warming - has been deliberately ignored. There is not even an indirect hint on as to where the coastal people are going to be relocated in the event of submergence of he coasts. This ignorance is understandable. This is where projection exercise was needed and report has failed in this again. If the coastal populations are to be relocated in the hinterlands, hinterlands
[Goanet] Protests against Vedanta owned Sesa Goa in Panjim
Advaplpal villagers today protested against British Multinational Vedanta owned Sesa Goa in Panjim. For text and pictures click the following links: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/06/protests-against-vedanta-owned-sesa-goa.html Warmly, Seby _ Timely update on all current affairs, sports, events and all thats in News here on MSN videos. http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] New Depth on Land Battles on World Environment Day
Hello! Battles around land in Goa touched new depth on June 05 2008 - World Environment Day. To know more click the following links: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/06/new-depth-on-land-battles-on-world.html Warmly, Seby www.mandgoa.blogspot.com _ Watch hottest Bollywood videos, clips, movie tailors, star interviews, songs and more on MSN videos. http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Watch 'Paradise Sacarred' today at 4.30pm on CNN-IBN on Goa mining
Hello! Watch 'Paradise Sacarred' today at 4.30pm (IST) on CNN-IBN on Goa mining. Warmly, Seby _ Timely update on all current affairs, sports, events and all thats in News here on MSN videos. http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] New uploads on Mand Blog for June 09, 2008
Hello! Here are set of five new uploads with text and pictures on Mand Blog today: 1. Sesa Goa mining cracks Arondekar's house in Advalpal http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/06/sesa-goa-mining-cracks-arondekars-house.html 2. Links of CNN-IBN telecast of 'Not all is sunny and peaceful' http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/06/links-of-cnn-ibn-telecast-of-not-all-is.html 3. GAKUVED Newsletter RAKHANDAR released http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/06/gakuved-newsletter-rakhandar-released.html 4. Anti-SEZ protestors support Anti-Mining protestors in Advalpal http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/06/anti-sez-protestors-support-anti-mining.html 5. Now Tata mining on Goa's border in North! http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/06/now-tata-mining-on-goas-border-in-north.html Warmly, Seby _ Timely update on all current affairs, sports, events and all thats in News here on MSN videos. http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Fomento bluff called off: Mining water in Agricultural lands
For Picture click here: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/06/fomento-bluff-called-off-mining-water.html Fomento mining company in Colamb released polluted water from its controversial mine in Colamb, Sanguem into the village agricultural lands on June 12, 2008 at 4.00 pm. Villagers after hearing loud sound of water on the mine rushed to the site only to discover that brownish mining water was fast gushing into their fields. Angry villagers then marched on the mine and came to know that water release into the fields was supervised by the mining manager. Villagers warned the Fomentos that this practice of the company will not be treated by the Colamb villagers and the company will get fitting reply. Despite court injunction against the villagers forbidding them from entering the villagers villagers daringly marched on the mine and challenged the Fomentos to file Police complaints. Villagers got into the verbal duel with the mining manager over the repercussions of the continuation of Fomento mine in Colamb village by force. Sebastian Rodrigues _ Catch the latest fashion shows, get beauty tips and learn more on fashion and lifestyle. http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Qepem Police PI invokes Sec.149 Cr.Pc on Rama Velip
Quepem Police Inspector has invoked section 149 Code of Criminal Procedures authorising police to the extend of preventive arrests in anticipation of commission of cognizable and non-cognizable offences without anyone registering complaints. He has been served call letter with a request to be present at the Quepem Police Station on June 24 at 5.00 pm. This move is clearly to harass Rama Veilip who has challenged powerful mining industry of Goa and brought few mines in his village standstill including the mines operated by Fomentos. Police are yet to take any action on complaint of physical assaults on Succorina Dias and Motesh Antao on May 02, 2008. Police are also take any action on complaint of release of silted water into the Agricultural fields of Colamb farmers from the Fomentos operating Hiralal Khodidas mine T.C. no. 06/1949 on June 12, 2008 even though written complaint has been filed with the police station to this effect by GAKUVED. It is clear beyond an iota of doubt as to why all this is happening and Police are acting against people and impotent against mining industry - the power of notes, higher levels political influences and everything else that comes with it including free dining and entertainments at Cidade de Goa - Starred Hotel owned by mining company Fomentos. Sebastian Rodrigues www.mandgoa.blogspot.com _ No Harvard, No Oxford. We are here. Find out !! http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=500
[Goanet] Sesa Goa's illegal dumps in Pissurlem: No Action from Government
Even though Mamlatdar of Sattari Taluka ruled that mining dumps belonging to Sesa Goa mining company now owned by British multinational Vedanta way back on 24th June 2004 even after four years action to remove the same is yet to be taken. Here is the Text of the letter as it is addreesed to the Dy. Collector & SDO, Sub Division, Bicholim-Goa with subject Complaint against M/s Sesa Goa & Co: This Office is in receipt of a complaint received from Shri Hanumant C. Parab & others agaisnt M/s Sesa Goa & Company in respect of Sy. No. 24/11 of village Pissurlem Satari Taluka. After the receipt of said complaints inquiry was conducted through the Talathi of Pissurlem saza and as per the report of the Talathi, the property surveyed under Sy.No.24/11 is recorded in the name of Govt. of Goa, Daman & Diu and Shamba Govind Sinai Pissurlekar, Anusuyabai Anant Pissurlekar and Purushotam Sindu Kailo Devidas. That though the said property is recorded in the name of Govt. of Goa and three others, the said property is not partitioned by metes and bound, and the share of each co-owner cannot be ascertain. That the said Sesa Goa Company have illegally used the said properties surveyed under Sy.No. 24/11 for dumping of their mining rejects without any authority/consent from the Govt. As such the said use of the property by the said mining company is illegal and against the interest of the Govt. Your are therefore kindly requested to take necessary action against the4 said Sesa Goa mining company under the land Revenue Code. Yours Faithfully Sd/- (S.F. Naik) Mamlatdar of Satari Taluka, Valpoi - Goa Deputy Collector is not acting on this further. Reason of course is understandable as Hanumant Porob from Comments: Concern officers like Arvind Bugde, the Deputy Collector of Bicholim are not serious on this issue as they are under the control of the politicians and mining companies and they are neglecting the public interest and safety. Sebastian Rodrigues www.mandgoa.blogspot.com _ 2000 Placements last year. Are You next ? Find out http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=499
[Goanet] Fomentos determined to ruin Goan Village: Colamb
--- http://www.GOANET.org --- South Asian Film Festival in Goa from Fri (June 27) to Mon (June 30) At Kala Academy, and ESG, Panaji, Goa http://lists.goanet.org/pipermail/goanet-goanet.org/2008-June/076384.html --- Hello! Look at how Fomento mining company is determined to ruin Goan villages with photographs. Click below to see for yourself: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/06/on-june-12-2008-fometo-mining-company.html Warmly, Seby _ 2000 Placements last year. Are You next ? Find out http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=499
[Goanet] Maina, Quepem under mining threats
--- http://www.GOANET.org --- South Asian Film Festival in Goa from Fri (June 27) to Mon (June 30) At Kala Academy, and ESG, Panaji, Goa http://lists.goanet.org/pipermail/goanet-goanet.org/2008-June/076384.html --- Hello! Maina, village of Quepem taluka in South Goa is under enormous threat of mining. Please visit the following links to view pictures: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/06/mina-quepem-under-mining-threats.html Warmly, Seby _ Catch the latest fashion shows, get beauty tips and learn more on fashion and lifestyle. http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Goa Su-Raj Party condemn attack on Press in Advalpal
This is to express deepest condemnation of the attack on section of Press including journalists from Herald and HCN at Advalpal Gram Sabha last Sunday June 29, 2008. They were violently driven away from the Gram Sabha from there. Village Sarpanch and mining companies are targeting Journalists in order carry forward their shoddy deals. This is a third instance of attack on Freedom of Speech and Expression within a fortnight. Earlier two instances includes when I was tagged as naxal on June 19, 2008 by Goa leader of the Opposition and two blogs that I write to were targeted. Then during the Margao Eve teasing violence a journalist Komarpant was violently targeted by State police force and seriously injured on June 27, 2008. Freedom of Press is a Fundamental Right that cannot be compromised under any circumstances. It is time for People of Goa to rally together in defence of Freedom of Press that has been guaranteed under Article 19. Sd/- Sebastian Rodrigues on Behalf of Goa Su-Raj Party _ 2000 Placements last year. Are You next ? Find out http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=499
[Goanet] GAKUVED warns mining industry in Goa
Gawada, Kunbi, Velip & Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) express shock on the charge in the statement issued by the Hon'ble Opposition Leader Shri Manohar Parrikar against our Co-ordinator of 'Mand' Shri Sebastian Rodrigues. GAKUVED strongly condemn and denies the charge levied on our O-odinator as naxalite. In fact Shri Sebastian Rodrigues is working with and helping GAKUVED for the last four year in their activities. GAKUVED has formed a unit called 'MAND' - An Adivasi-rights Resource Centre and Shri Sebastian Rodrigues is the Co-ordinator of the same. Because the News Agencies in Goa do not take any interest in publishing our news there was a need for us to go for other media and GAKUVED has formed the blog of its own http://www.mandgoa.blogspot.com/ where all the information about day to day activities carried by GAKUVED is posted for the information of general public. GAKUVED's local unit in Rivona Panchayat in Sanguem Taluka based at Colomb is involved in safeguarding and protecting their agricultural and plantation land which is threatened by mining companies. Out of total village land of 1929 hectares, 1510 hectares is under 23 mining leases granted during Colonial Portuguese regime that ended in 1961 and continued by the free Indian State. The villagers are fighting for their survival and GAKUVED is supporting their struggle over past one year. As a Co-ordinator of MAND some times Shri Sebastian Rodrigues visits the mining areas at the request of the local villagers during their protest against the illegal mining (all the mining activities in Goa are illegal) and prepares the report with photographs and publishes it on the blog. Shri Sebastian Rodrigues is never involved in any naxalite activities and members of GAKUVED always remained with him. GAKUVED never noticed Shri Sebastian Rodrigues involved in any naxal activities. It is only Mr. Manohar Parrikar's daydreaming at the instance of mining companies. In fact it is the mining companies that are involved in terrorising the villagers by employing goons and Mr. Parrikar overlooking the activities of the mining companies. Mr. Manohar Parrikar has never helped and supported the GAKUVED Community. He has only used this community as vote bank to secure his position in Power. In 2000, when Mr. Parrikar was leading the State Government, GAKUVED has arranged a Morcha on 01-03-2000 to demand inclusion of their name in Central list of ST. On 02-03-2000 the delegates of GAKUVED tried to meet Shri Parrikar at Farmagudi to give him the Memorandum, Shri Parrikar expressed, "Bhausaheban mhaka trasan udoilo, vadea vadeani shala kadleo ani." (Dayanand Bandodkar, the first Chief Minister of Goa has put me in trouble, for he opened primary schools in different wards of villages providing education). What Shri Parrikar wanted to tell the delegates, readers you judge. When GAKUVED was struggling to get this community included in the Central List of Scheduled Tribes his government with the help of some of our community members had tried to delete the names of GAKUVED community from the list. When the list was published in Times of India, the GAKUVED members rushed to New Delhi and met Secretary, Tribal Welfare where it was informed that at the instruction of the local BJP government the list have been changed. Then GAKUVED had filed Writ in the Parliament through the then MP Shri Ramakant Angle to include names of GAKUVED community in the Central List. Unfortunately Dhangar community was excluded from the list due to the politics of BJP Government. In 2003 delegates of GAKUVED met him in his Chamber to inquire about implementation of Tribal Act in the State of Goa. Mr. Parrikar remarked, "Mhaka tumche Gaudea lokancho abhiman dista. Madkai majea mamalea Bhatant tumche gaude lok sogle kam sanginastana kartat and magir Mapusa majea bhatant yeun moino bhor kam kortat." (I am proud of Gawada community. They work in my uncle's plantation at Marcaim and after finishing that work, they work in my plantation at Mapusa without my knowledge for one month). By this remark Mr. Parrikar just wanted to tell that you are good in doing manual work in plantations and must continue doing that without taking education and Mr. Parrikar will continue to enjoy the fruits of free labour for eternity. This he has proved during his reign as CM by raising tution fees in all the professional colleges and made it economically beyond reach for the general members of the GAKUVED and other backward class to take admissions in professional colleges. Because the general members of the GAKUVED and OBC cannot think of the fees when they are half fed. In another incident as CM, Mr. Parrikar has manipulated Population Survey of ST community getting drastically reduced figures of Gawadas, Kunbis & Velips as 12% of Goa's population. At the time of conducting populati
[Goanet] Statement of Rama Velip at Quepem Police Station
Quepem Police Station Date:- 24/06/2008 Statement I Shri. Rama s/o Ladu Velip Age - 44 years, occupation - Agriculturist r/o H.No. 36, Colomba, Rivona, Goa do hereby state as under: I am as above and residing at the above mentioned address. That I am a agriculturist by profession and doing agricultural work at Colomba. I say that I know one Sebastiao Rodrigues r/o Siolim Mapusa Since last 05 years from the year 2003. The said Sebastiao Rodrigues use to visit our home at Colomba alongwith br. Philip of Don Bosco, Sulcorna and Venkatesh Prabhu Dessai of Colomba - Kevona. The said Sebastiao use to move along with brother Philip Neri D'Souza. I say that whenever there was a meeting in our village regarding mining issue and other environmental or land issue he use to visit our village. Most of the time said Venkatesh Prabhu Dessai and also Br. Philip use to attend the said meeting of "GAKUVED" and use to take photographs and was doing videography also. Mostly he use to do work on the Internet. I further state that the Br. Philip Neri D'Souza is not working in Don Bosco farm Sulcorna as he was transferred to an other place. So also Venkatesh Prabhu Dessai is not also in contact with me for the last 06 months or so and he is not attending our meetings now. Hence my Statement. My Statement is recorded in English, read over and explained to me and found correctly recorded as per my say. Sd/- Rama Velip Before me Sd/- (Santosh S. Dessai) PI, Quepem Police Station This Statement was recorded after issuing Call letter to Rama Velip in view of the allegations of naxalite infiltration in Colamb was leveled by the Leader of the Opposition, Goa Legislative Assembly on June 19, 2008. Sebastian Rodrigues www.mandgoa.blogspot.com _ Searching for the best deals on travel? Visit MSN Travel. http://msn.coxandkings.co.in/cnk/cnk.do
[Goanet] Sarvona Zantye Mining:Third Party Intervention granted
by Ramesh Gauns Sarvona Mine in Bicholim, which has remained in the publicity for various controversies such as People's agitations, postponements of Public Hearings etc. has yet again received set back in the Court of Administrative Tribunal. The company had filed an appeal before the Court of Administrative Tribunal, Panaji via appeal no. 2/2008 on Feb. 2008 making the Goa pollution Control Board the respondent. The appeal was to ask for consent to operate and consent to establish under Air (Control and Prevention of Pollution) Act 1981 and Water (Control and Prevention of pollution) Act 1974 respectively. The environment clearance obtained by M/s Zantye & Co. Pvt. Ltd on August 21. 2007, from the Ministry of Environment' s Appellate Authority, New Delhi vide Appeal no. 11/2007. The Appeal reads as Ramesh S. Gauns V/s Ministry of Environment & Forest, New Delhi as Respondent no. 1, M/s Zantye & Co. Pvt. Ltd as Respondent no. 2, The Goa State Pollution Control Board as Respondent no. 3 and Chief Secretary, Govt. of Goa as Respondent no. 4. The Respondent no.1 was not attending the hearings hence notice stating that the matter will be decided and disposed Ex-parte. The notice stating that the matter will be decided and disposed Ex-parte. The notice was in the name of Secretary, MOEF, New Delhi on 11th March 2008. Respondent no 2 meanwhile filed an appeal on 08.02.2008 via Appeal no. 2/2008 in the Court of Administrative Tribunal at Panjim against the Goa State Pollution Control Board for not issuing required consent by virtue of which mine can get under operations. The matter was to come on 03.04.2008. Having learnt the developments and desperate attempts to get the mining operational, an application was moved by me in the Court of Administrative Tribunal at Panaji for a third party intervention. the matter was kept for argument on third party intervention and argued on two occasions wherein the advocate from M/s Zantye & Co. Pvt Ltd cited Supreme Court Order to check my intervention. The matter was pleaded by me. Finally on June 26th 2008, the Court of Administrative Tribunal at Panaji allowed my third party intervention as Respondent no.2 in the said appeal. The matter is kept for final argument on 18th July 2008 where as the Appeal before National Environmental Appellate Authority, New Delhi is to come on for hearing on 11th of July where in my lawyer advocate Ritwick Dutta, Delhi based Lawyer is representing on my behalf. Sarvona mine TC/ML28/53 of M/s Zantye & Co. Pvt. Ltd having area of 72.00 hectares. With Natural Flora and Fauna, located exactly on the banks of perennial fresh water body - Bicholim River which is notorious for its flood havoc in the monsoon season. The said mining project has been receiving severe blockades since 18th January 2007, the day on which the first Public hearing was postponed on technical grounds and simultaneously launching of strong process from the local residents in the vicinity of the mining lease. This is the only mining project probably in the history of mining in Goa, which is stalled for such a long time even after company obtaining the Environmental Clearance from Ministry of Environment & Forest, New Delhi. In spite of bringing out various flaws and violations from the project proponent at various levels including the "Deed of Lease" to the EC order which were placed before the Governor, Chief Minister, the Chief Secretary, the Department of Mines and Geology, Pollution Control Board, none of these bothered to take lawful actions against M/s Zantye & Co. Pvt. Ltd and the mining project. Whatever legal actions the state Govt. was supposed to take to ensure justice in the matter, is being tried through the courts. Once again proving that State is no way - though sad to state - interested in giving justice to the people against the mining lobby which is root cause of people's agony and sufferings imposed by destruction of traditional occupations, water bodies and Health. www.mandgoa.blogspot.com _ Chose your Life Partner? Join MSN Matrimony http://www.shaadi.com/msn/matrimony.php
[Goanet] Press Note: Public Screenings of 'Naxal' cds
Gawada, Kunbi, Velip and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) will organise public screening of documentary cds dubbed as 'Naxal' by the Leader of the opposition on June 19 2008 at the Public Hearing of the House Committee of Home Ministry. The CDs are a adivasi rights campaigning in favour of land rights againt invasion of the mining companies in Jharkhand. They are produced by a group called BIRSA - Binbrai Institute of Research Study and Action based in Ranchi, Jharkahnd. The screening is for Press, Police and members of Public. The screening is going to be on Thursday, 10th July at 4.00pm at Art Gallery of Menezes Braganza Hall, Panjim, Goa. Yours Sincerely, Sd/- (Durgadas Gaonkar) President, Gawada, Kunbi, Velip and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) -- www.mandgoa.blogspot.com MAND An adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) "Hari Smriti" 381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas, Goa. Pincode: 403 110 _ Searching for the best deals on travel? Visit MSN Travel. http://msn.coxandkings.co.in/cnk/cnk.do
[Goanet] Correction: Press Note: Public Screenings of Jharkhand Adivasi Rights CDs
Gawada, Kunbi, Velip and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) will organise a public screening of documentary cds on Thursday, 10th July at 4.00 pm at Art Gallery of Menezes Braganza Hall, Panjim, Goa. The documentary CDs were dubbed as 'Naxal' by the Leader of the opposition on June 19, 2008 at the Public Hearing of the House Committee of Home Ministry. The CDs are a adivasi rights campaign in favour of land rights against invasion of the mining companies in Jharkhand. They are produced by a group called BIRSA - Binbrai Institute of Research Study and Action based in Ranchi, Jharkahnd. The screening is for Press, Police and members of Public. Yours Sincerely, Sd/- (Durgadas Gaonkar) President, Gawada, Kunbi, Velip and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) Phone: 09923336347 _ Missed your favourite programme? Stop surfing TV channels and start planning your weekend TV viewing with our comprehensive TV Listing http://entertainment.in.msn.com/TV/TVListing.aspx
[Goanet] Tarcar Mining: Rivona Sarpanch Gheraoed
Due to unbearable situation created in Colamb due to transportation of Iron Ore truck by Tarcar mine operating in Sulcorna village agitated Colamb villagers gheraoed Village sarpanch Manshi Naik at the Panchayat office in Rivona. About 25 villagers mostly women had gone to complain to the Panchayat authorities about pathetic road conditions created due to operation of mining trucks from Tarcar mines in nearby Sulcorna village. Sulcorna village in 100% under various mining leases during Portuguese period. Former Congress - (I) candidate for Panjim constituency associated with Youth Congress - Dinar Tarcar has been involved in predatory form of iron ore mining in Sulcorna. Besides ruining Sulcorna, its transportation is ruining public roads of Colamb and Rivona as well. Colamb villagers today expressed their displeasure to the village authorities. Gherao was resorted to, according to eye witness Motesh Antao, when Sarpanch Ms. Manshi Naik behaved in high handed manner and refused to listen to the grievances of the villagers present at the Panchayat office. Instead of listening to the villagers she tried to shut voices of the villagers by ordering them to shut up. Villagers then accused Sarpanch of being on the pay roll of the mining companies demanded her resignation. It is only after the verbal duel with the villagers that Sarpanch reluctantly agreed to write letter to the concerned authorities regarding the destruction of roads in Colamb village by Tarcar mining transportation from nearby Sulcorna village. It is indeed tragedy of Goa that we have people like Manshi Naik as Sarpanches in Goa; earlier they are overthrown by People Power better it is for Goa's future, or we are all destined to be stiffled by mining companies. Sebastian Rodrigues www.mandgoa.blogspot.com _ Wish to Marry Now? Join Shaadi.com FREE! http://www.shaadi.com/registration/user/index.php?ptnr=mhottag
[Goanet] Tarcar mining trucks focred-stop in Colamb
Around 100 strong group of villagers of Kevona-Colamb blocked road in the village and sent back over 50 Iron Ore trucks back to Dinar Tarcar's mines in nearby Sulcorna village on July 10 2008. At around 10.00 am Colamb villagers descended on the road and started blocking the road. Scene turned tensed when a local correspondent of the Marathi daily 'Goa Doot' was violently targeted by the truck drivers and public stood in defence of the photographer. Police from Quepem Police station turned up at the road blockade site and immediately - rather pleasant surprise considering earlier track record of Police from Quepem Police station - started siding with the agitating villagers demand that no transportation of Ore on the villager road be carried on till the pot-holes ridden village road hijacked by mining companies. By 2.00 pm Public and Police forced the trucks to go back to their mines and stop plying on the road in Colamb. Police indeed deserved to be congratulated for this. Well done at least once you'll took the side of public. it would be great to see more of such actions in future specially against Fomento mining company that has been systematically ruing the Colamb village through its mine of Hiralal khodidas. Dinar Tarcar is carrying on illegal mine lease in the name of Hyder Cassim T.C. No. 10/51 in Sulcorna. Mining has cause tremendous damage to the agriculture in Sulcorna and Dinar Tarcar is involved in muzzling of local protests of villagers in Sulcorna. Villagers on the earlier occasion on July 08 2008 had complained to the Rivona Sarpanch about the bad road conditions in Colamb and forced her to take immediate steps to stop mining transportation on public road. Sarpanch Manshi Naik had reluctantly agreed to this after behaving hi handed with the villagers. Click here for earlier report on this. Sebastian Rodrigues with input from Rama Velip in Colamb http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/07/tarcar-mining-trucks-focred-stop-in.html _ Wish to Marry Now? Click Here to Register FREE http://www.shaadi.com/registration/user/index.php?ptnr=mhottag
Re: [Goanet] It is TOMORROW the DATE - 12 JULY, 2008 - Manvin's
Hello! This is just make my and my colleague Ramesh Gawas's position clear vis-a-vis tommorrow's power point presentation. We believe mining is an terrorist activity confronting Goa and it has to stopped once and for all. We do not believe in any for of compromise on this position. We have arrived at this position after years of painstaking and life risking working in mining belt of Goa. We have been given letter on july 6, 2008 that we I am reproducing here and there is nothing about 'compromise'. I am in complete disagreement with the part of mail circulated on Goanet today with the above heading by Floriano Lobo. The objectionable part being the following "means and ways of a compromise between mining and preservation of Goa's environmental and ecological balance". The problems created by mining industry is so much under focused in media due to histrical control of the same by mining industry that it is important that more and more people join the effort to expose mining terror in Goa. I look at tommorrow's public power point presentation in this light. Since this mail is sent on public mailing list, I am replying to the same on public mailing list. Warmly, Seby July 6, 2008 To, Sebastian Rodrigues, Ramesh Gauns Sir, A 'Power Point' Presentation to showcase the ill-effects of the indiscriminate and irresponsible mining in Goa is scheduled to be held on SATURDAY, 12TH JULY, 2008 AT 4:30 P.M. at the Roof Garden - MANVIN'S HOTEL, Souza Towers, Opp. Municipal Garden, Panjim, for the benefit of the Press as well as for the benefit of the more conscious citizens of Goa. The said presentation is by Shri. Ramesh Gauns; National Best Teachers Awardee for 2008 and Shri. Sebastian Rodrigues; the two well known pro-environment activists of Goa, You are cordialy invited. Needless to say that your kind presence shall be highly appreciated. Thanking you, Sincerely, for Goa Environmental Action Group S/d (Floriano C. Lobo) Hon. Gen. Secretary/Spokesperso Date: Fri, 11 Jul 2008 19:33:33 +0530 From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Fwd: It is TOMORROW the DATE - 12 JULY, 2008 - Manvin's -- Forwarded message -- From: Miguel Braganza <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Date: Jul 11, 2008 1:46 PM Subject: It is TOMORROW the DATE - 12 JULY, 2008 - Manvin's To: "Goanet goanet.org" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Dears, To be fair to the mining lobby, I believe the GMOEA or one of the mining Companies should be allowed to present their counterpoint in a power point presentation. The MFG, which is paid by the mining companies to work with the people affected by mining, should be permitted to present the NEUTRAL view. I spoke to Seby last evening after the screening of the "Jan Sunwayee" urf "Gun Sunwayee" VCDs [made famous by Manohar Parrikar] at the Art Gallery of Institute Menezes Braganza. What I speak, I also write. Same person , same thoughts. After what he spoke to me yesterday, I must say that the INTERACTION that Floriano writes about below, will be interesting. Seby is not known to change his views overnight. I have read his views on madgoa blogspot and "Rakhanddar" tabloid of GAKUVED, heard him on some occasions and interacted with him on 26 March, 02 May and 05 June, 2008 at Colomb/SULCORNA and on 23 June and 10 July, 2008 at Panaji and of course for San Juanv at Siolim on 24 June. St. John had a short journey from the womb to the tomb. He would have been around 35 years old as he was a few weeks older to Jesus de Nazereth ...and lived a liitle longer. He was not crucified ... he just lost his head, after Salomi danced and asked for a boon from her father at the instance of her mother. Whose baby will jump in whose womb to see whom on 12 July, 2008? Is this a GMOEA funded programme to find a via media between the rigid stands of the mining and anti-mining lobbies in Goa. COMPROMISE is a big word to use for a Party that claims to have PRINCIPLES. Granted that Floriano Lobo, unlike the GPA and GMAS, is at least upfront about the objective of this exercise ...COMPROMISE. [not BALANCE or EQUILIBRIUM or the non-existent SUSTAINABLE MINING.] We have heard of a wonderful justification for a dinner in Cidade de Goa before the "Bye" elections in Taleigao in 2005. We will definitely hear some more. Sujay Gupta is at hand to write a STAR "Letter to the Editor" at the behest of all those who are willing to foment trouble for the anti-mining activists like the "Proud to be Goa Su-raj member" who was wrongly alleged to be a Naxalite. Anyone for Rohypnol? Cross by "Coracao Blue" heart. This is going to be one helluva date rape. I am already loving it! ;-) Manvin's Hotel is in Souza Towers that also houses an unit of "Padma Shree Remo Fernandes" [as pe
[Goanet] CPI-ML Statement: Anti-Land Grab Activist in Goa Branded as 'Naxalite'
Sebastian Rodrigues, a young activist in Goa who has been campaigning against the loot and devastation of Goa's environment and people's land and livelihood by mining corporations, was recently branded as a 'Naxalite' by Goan Leader of the Opposition Manohar Parrikar of the BJP. The evidence? In his blogspot, Rodrigues had carried an interview of CPI(ML) CCM Comrade Rajaram! Rodrigues had been reporting on the protests by people of Manoharpur Block in Jharkand's West Singhbhum district against Goan mining company Dempo, which is threatening to displace two tribal villages (over 4000 villagers) of Dinburlim and Kamarbeda. CPI(ML) CCMs, ex-MLA Bahadur Oraon, as well as Rajaram had been participating in the people's protests. On 19 June at the Ad-hoc committee meet of the Goa Home Ministry, Manohar Parrikar presented print-outs of these blog entries which according to him 'proved' that Rogdrigues was a member of the CPI(ML), which according to him is a 'banned' outfit! The above events show how the Goa Government and Opposition are both equally in the service of mining corporations and are invoking the 'Naxalite' bogey to delegitimise all protest. While Rodrigues is not a member of CPI(ML), the BJP also knows full well that the CPI(ML) is a recognised political party with an MLA in the Jharkhand Assembly and with a commitment to struggles against corporate loot and land grab. CPI(ML) strongly condemns the witch-hunt of the anti-land grab activists in Goa and warns against all attempts to brand the CPI(ML) as a 'banned outfit'. CPI(ML) stands in solidarity with the Goan people's struggles against land grab and corporate loot. ( Source: ML Update Vol. 11 No. 28 8 - 14 JULY 2008) _ Wish to Marry Now? Click Here to Register FREE http://www.shaadi.com/registration/user/index.php?ptnr=mhottag
[Goanet] Dempo havoc in Pilgao
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 2008 Toronto International Goan Convention Theme: Goan Identity And Networking Today. http://2008goanconvention.com/index.php Mario Miranda Festival, July 24-26, 2008 Old GMC Building http://lists.goanet.org/pipermail/goanet-goanet.org/2008-July/077732.html * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Pilgao is one village in Bicholim, where in the havoc created by Dempo mining company is legendary and is visible for everyone to see. The company has got its beneficiation plant located in the village to wash the iron ore, it is a site for storage of the iron ore, site where in it has created arificial lake to pump water out to earn foreign exchange, de facto privatized public road and most importantly it has dumped mining waste in precious reclaimed lands of Goa known as Khazan lands. Lets tour Pilgao... http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/07/dempo-havoc-in-pilgao.html Warmly, Seby _ Wish to Marry Now? Join Shaadi.com FREE! http://www.shaadi.com/registration/user/index.php?ptnr=mhottag --- http://www.GOANET.org --- Tri Continental Film Festival 2008 July 25 - 30, 2008 Goa, India http://www.moviesgoa.org/page/tri_continental/ http://www.moviesgoa.org/tricon/schedule_2008.pdf ---
[Goanet] Save Mandovi! Save Zuari!!
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 2008 Toronto International Goan Convention Theme: Goan Identity And Networking Today. http://2008goanconvention.com/index.php Mario Miranda Festival, July 24-26, 2008 Old GMC Building http://lists.goanet.org/pipermail/goanet-goanet.org/2008-July/077732.html * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * View a photo Essay with a commentary on mining trade in Goa and how it has colonised our two of the best know rivers in Goa: Mandovi and Zuari. Click below links to plunge on into turbid Mandovi and mining economics in commentary form: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/07/save-mandovi-save-zuari.html Warmly, Seby _ Searching for the best deals on travel? Visit MSN Travel. http://msn.coxandkings.co.in/cnk/cnk.do --- http://www.GOANET.org --- Tri Continental Film Festival 2008 July 25 - 30, 2008 Goa, India http://www.moviesgoa.org/page/tri_continental/ http://www.moviesgoa.org/tricon/schedule_2008.pdf ---
[Goanet] 22 member delegation calls upon Goa Chief Minister
Monday, August 4, 2008 22 member delegation consisting of People from different parts of Goa today called on Chief Minister of Goa Digamber Kamat at his official Altinho residence. People coming from Goa's mining belt had joint discussion on the impact of mining on the villagers in number of villages. The Villages from where people came for the meeting with CM includes Advalpal, Sarvan, Bicholim, Sirgao, Maina-Quepem, and Colamb. Besides people from the organisations such as GAKUVED, and Goa Foundation. Goa government has come under increased pressure from the public and media to curtail mining industry that has been terrorizing Goan villages by ruining their agrarian economy and ecology. Chief Minister declared that he has no interest in protection mining industry in Goa and he will take steps to regulate the same. Mining policy is the first step in that direction. Dr. Claude Alvares began the discussions by pointing out gross illegalities by mining companies in Goa. Rama Velip and Dr. Avadooth Prabhudesai presented the scenario of Colamb village with Maps. They told Chief Minister that their village stands to disappear in case mining leases gets activated. Ramesh Gauns sounded warning bell by getting into technicalities as to how mining is detrimental to the interest of Goa. He explained as to how it will adversely effect tourism and fisheries industry of Goa, besides creating major water shortages due to mining inside water reservoirs of Selaulim and Opa water works. Shamsunder Naik, presented case of Advalpal mining and dwelt on how his village is suffering due to mining and their agitation is going on since 2005. Dinanath Gaonkar along with a former Sarpanch of his village narrated a tale of tragedy of Sirgao village where in over 70 village wells are gone dry. They called upon Chief Minister to look into the matter. Hartman D'Souza represented the case of Maina in Quepem where in two MLAs of Goa Legislative Assemby Joaquim Alemao and Anil Salgaonkar are involved in illegal mining in pristine forest land. Durgadas Gaonkar, President of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) told the Chief Minister that tribal community of Goa is worse affected due to mining expansion in Goa. Chief Minister agreed with Mr. Gaonkar and said the tribal community is particularly vulnerable in Quepem and Sanguem taluka as mining expansion is concentrated in these two talukas. Mr. Umarye from Sarvona presented the case of Vathadev, Sarvona Zantye mining wherein if the mining activities begin then it stands in the middle of major risks including flooding as the mine lease is located in flood prone zone on Bicholim River. Sebastian Rodrigues, Co-ordinator of Mand introduced himself as the one who has been tagged as Naxalite. Chief Minister said he do not share that view and he never called any one Naxalite. Chief Minister requested that he be given the list of all the illegal mines operating in the State of Goa so that he can take action against them. Mr. Kamat, when pressed by the delegates for action he told villagers to physically block operation of mines that are illegal. Environmental Activists Sandeep Azrekar and Nilesh Naik were amongst others present during the meeting with the Chief Minister. Sebastian Rodrigues http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/08/22-member-delegation-calls-upon-goa.html _ Chose your Life Partner? Join MSN Matrimony FREE http://www.shaadi.com/msn/matrimony.php
[Goanet] Goa State SAIP workshop - Extended for two days
Dear Friends, Movements related tribal rights all over India are in the process of publishing a consolidated reference book about the Status of Adivasis and Indigenous People (SAIP) in India. In Goa too there are Adivasis and the Study is being prepared. The draft is ready and for the wider discussion a two days workshop is being planned in Goa on Saturday - Sunday, November 24-25, 2007 in Panjim at Caritas Hall from 10.00am to 5.00pm. The workshop is organised MAND, An adivasi-rights resource centre, an initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED), in collaboration with Nature, Environment, Society and Transformations (NEST). The collaboration is with the background that NEST has played very crucial role since 2004 in the evolution of MAND and the ideological direction towards focus on land issues on the past of GAKUVED. The draft two full days programme will consists of the following discussion sessions: 1. Introduction of SAIP study project 2. Visual description of MAND evolution 3. Goa Study: Pre-Portuguese situation of tribes in Goa 4. Goa Study: Tribes under Portuguese colonial Period 5. Goa Study: Tribes after 1961 liberation 6. Planning ahead: Crafting networks for tribal empowerment in Goa Participants are expected to have read the draft Goa report and offer critical comments on any of the themes of the study during the workshop. In case participants want to send in their written comments in advance you are welcome to do so. In case you need the copy of the draft study, please let me know at the earliest. We have arranged for 50 participants totally. Please confirm your participation by October 25, 2007. There is no participation fee and lunch and refreshments will be provided by the organizers. Staying arrangement for 10 outstation participants have been made at Conference venue itself. We are however not in a position to provide for travel allowances. Kindly pass on this invite to those you think will be interested. Do get in touch with me either on this e-mail : [EMAIL PROTECTED] or on my mobile: 09923336347. In Solidarity, Sebastian Rodrigues (Co-ordinator) -- www.mandgoa.blogspot.com MAND An adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) "Hari Smriti" 381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas, Goa. Pincode: 403 110 _ Search from any Web page with powerful protection. Get the FREE Windows Live Toolbar Today! http://toolbar.live.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Fomentos flexes State power to bulldoze livelihoods with its mines in Colamb, Sanguem
are shining example of the way this nexus is operating inside the veins of Goa. Sebastian Rodrigues MINUTES OF THE MEETING CONVENED BY THE SUB DIVISIONAL MAGISTRATE (SDM) OF QUEPEM SUB-DIVISION QUEPEM GOA ON 13/10/2007 TO TAKE STOCK OF THE LAW & ORDER PROBLEM PERTAINING TO OPERATION OF MINE BY HIRALAL KHODIDAS & COMPANY PRESENTLY OPERATED BY FOMENTO MINING GROUP The following members were for the meeting 1. Shri Parag Nagarssekar, Mamlatdar of Sanguem. 2. Shri Sudin Natu, Mamlatdar of Quepem 3. Shri Hector Fernandes, Asstt. Geologist, Director of Mines & Geology, Panaji 4. Shri S.M. Rangaraju, Exe. Engineer, Water Resource Department (WRD) 5. Shri Paily P., A.E. Water Resource Department 6. Shri B.S. Prabhu, Zonal Agriculture Officer(ZAO), Sanguem 7. Shri P.B.Shirvoikar, Police Inspector(PI), Quepem Police Station 8. Shri Gajanan Harihar Karkare, Sr. Manager 9. Shri Atul V. Makode, Mines Manager 10. Shri P.T. Naidu 11. Shri Vijay D. Kerker 12. Shri Gokuldas K Naik 13. Shri Sandeep Gaonkar 14. Shri V.K. Prabhu Dessai 15. Shri Rama L. Velip 16. Shri Egypt D’Souza 17. Shri Telu Dias 18. Shri Rajanikant Velip 19. Shri Ramchandra Velip 20. Shri Sebastiao D’Souza 21. Shri Ajai N. Naik 22. Shri Gaurish Naik At the outset the SDM Quepem welcomed the gathering & disclosed that the meeting was convened in order to tackle the law and order problem which has been constantly taking place at the site of the operation of mine by Hiralal Khodidas & company which is presently operated by Fomento Mining Group. The main issue which the villagers were concerned of is about adjoining nallah which is passing on the peripheri of the mining activity & secondly about the run-offs of the mines getting accumulated in the adjoining agricultural lands The villager named Rama Ladu Velip addressed to say that the sludge of the mine is affecting the paddy fields and the lands which are being cultivated by the Schedule Tribes is getting destroyed due to the silt. The land which is classified as forest land is also being surreptitiously utilized for mining activity & the forest resources is getting depleted day by day, has developed cracks to the households of the inhabitants who reside in the vicinity of the mining area and that the water table of the land has been substantially reduced. Shri Venkatesh Keshav Prabhu Dessai, another villager pointed out to say that the agricultural lands in the vicinity of the mining area are giving a double yield-kharif & Rabi type due to the availability of water source from the nallah. He also stated that the plateau used for mining acts as a reservoir for harvesting water during monsoon due to its capillary action and that protective measures taken by the mining company serve no purpose and that the operation of mines be stopped. Shri Salvador Dias, a villager submitted that the Government is encouraging agricultural activity by giving various types of subsidies, but on account of the operation of the mines the doles dished out by the Government would serve no purpose. He also stated that there would be no grazing ground left of available for the cattle and prayed that the mines be stopped from conducting any of its operation. Shri Hector Fernanades was representing the Director of Mines & Geology. He stated that the mining concession was in existence since 1949 by the virtue of Title of Concession No.6 for Iron and Manganese. The activities were going on manually for extracting Manganese ore and since the past 18 months this activity is controlled by the Central Government and the monitoring aspect is done by the Directorate of Mines, is what Mr. Hector had to say. The approvals for the operating of mine have been given by the Indian Bereau of Mines (IBM) after studying the mining plan which is accompanied by the study of Environment Impact Assessment. The concerns of the environment are looked after and taken care of by the IBM. The environment clearance of the present mine was given bye the Ministry of Environment and Forest on 12/3/2007 and is valid till date. Mr. Fernandes also stated that the area of lease given to the mine is 70,1870 sq.mts and he feigned ignorance as private forest. The usage of machinery on the mines is also subject to the Mines Safety Act is what Mr. Hector had to say. The Executive Engineer Mr. Ranga Raju who is also a canal Officer attached the Water Resources Department was present and he placed on record the series of reports which he has made from time to time alongwith photographical evidence of the nallah. The said correspondence and measures suggested by the canal Officer the average depth of the nallah is 2 mts. He submitted that only when the nallah is completely filled with silt, than and only than it would start overflowing and accumulating in the properties. He stated
[Goanet] Goons-Builders put gate blockade on Cacra-Nauxi public road
Today on 14th November 2007 the birthday of Chacha Nehru had a nasty surprise in store for the People of Cacra, Tiswadi, Goa, India. Goons came and forcefully blocked and erected gate on public road connecting Cacra and Nauxi villages on Zuari River shores. When the Cacra Nagrik Vikas Samiti went in to inquire they were told to contact the local panch who is supposed to know everything about the matter. He however was not traceable today and his mobile was not connectible. This fresh assault on the Cacra villagers and Goa's tribal population - Gawdas comes at a time when there is increasing protests of the conquests of the Goa's coast by the builders and Real estate agents for tourism and allied purposes. The entire coast in the region of Cacra, Nauxi, Bambolim, Siridao, Odxel, Mariel, Aivao and Dona Paula is under pressure due to this ruthless onslaught wherein State is actively siding with the builders. Looking at the way the things are proceedings it is not very difficult to guess the near future of Goa: On Coast due to Real Estate and in the hinterlands due to open cast iron ore mining lobby, there is going to be the situation of mass homelessness with repercussions of its own. Few months earlier same builders tried to erect the gate but the angry villagers had brought down the construction of Gate on Public Road. Cacra villagers use this space for their fishing activity. The landlords who got this land registered in their name with usurious intentions during erstwhile Portuguese Colonial Period that ranged from 1510 up to 1961 are involved in selling the same to builders - a familiar pattern that is visible across the State of Goa. They are known as 'Bhatcars', landlords who are the in the forefront of Sale of Goa for corporates. Cacra villagers were forced into fishing after they were occupationally displaced from agriculture when Goa University was set up in their lands. Now looks like they are also compelled to do away with their fishing occupation. What is surprising is that it is all happening in the knowledge and blessings of the powers that be in Goa. The entire coast is under assault from the rich and famous - the film stars, Sports Stars, Underworld and what not. The need of the hour is to evolve fitting reply to the Corporate invasion. Link with pictures: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2007/11/builders-put-gate-blokade-on-cacra.html -- www.mandgoa.blogspot.com MAND An adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) "Hari Smriti" 381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas, Goa. Pincode: 403 110 Visit my blog at http://www.openspaceforum.net/twiki/tiki-view_blog.php?blogId=17 _ Search from any Web page with powerful protection. Get the FREE Windows Live Toolbar Today! http://toolbar.live.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Santa Cruz Panchayat serves notice of demolition to Builders
Today on Novemeber 15, 2007 Santa Cruz Panchayat served notice of demolition to the builders who yesterday had constructed gate on the road connecting Cacra to Nauxi villages in Tiswadi Goa. The local member of Panchayat along with the Cacra Nagrik Vikas Samiti (CNVS) moved into action and pressurised the Santa Cruz Panchayat to act tough with the builders. The builders are given seven days notice under section 66 of Goa Panchayat Raj Act 1993. Yesterday at around 12 noon group of 20 goons came to the village and errected metal gate on the road passing via Zuari Coast - within 2 meters from the High Tide Line (HTL). The most shameful things of this saga is that the goons hired for this 'job' are all from the surrounding villages and they had taken contract to construct the gate from the builders. Panchayat notice is addressed to one Savio who is believed to be active persons if not the 'owner' of the Cacra commuinty lands. It may be noted that the land at this prime location is targetted by number of builders and Real Estate agents. The case of 'Aldeia de Goa' taking over around 140 acres of land to set up super luxurious residential complexes overlooking the Zuari River and the Murmagao Harbour is covering Bambolim and Nauxi Villages. The goons, by the way are also threatening the villagers of Nauxim as the houses there are of the Gawada adivasis are causing hinderance to the Comforts of the super rich. People here are offered cash by force and asked to leave thier dwelling places so as to make way for the plans to construct mini harbours inside Zuari so that water sports can make way. Current sources of livelihood in these villages is fishing and that is sort to be put to end by the Luxury tourism policies and instead plans are underway for full scale pomotion of water sports. Nauxi has come under severe pressure after its mountain was 'sold' to builders' firm by the landlord Mhambre. It is actually a bunch of landlords that are first responsible to cunningly transfer land titles into their names and then sell the same to the builders. The Cacra-Nauxi public road blockade is only the begining of things to come with goon power. This road even several years before it was tarred by the Alcon developers, was and still is a traditional way of the Cacra villagers going to Nauxi, Bambolim and Siridao. The road is also used as fishing Path. The land to the builders - Alcon dvelopers was sold again here by another Bhatcar - landlord Pradeep Talaulikar. His family got these land titles in his families names with usurious intentions during Portuguguese colonial period that ended in 1961. It is landlord-Builders nexus that is involved in conquests of lands of Goa's adivasis in 'Liberated Goa'. Patience of the Cacra villagers that fought industrialist Timblos in 1997 though village anhilating porject called OSB - Offshore Stockyard and Bearth by Marmagoa Maritime Limited (MML), who fought over water theft from their village well by Timblos 1999, who are continuesly guarding against encroachment of builders, are facing yet another test. However it is not going to be thier last test as struggles of over land are acutely fought over throughout Goa and Cacra simly has best of lands for builders and Real Estate sharks. Link with pictures: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2007/11/santa-cruz-panchayat-serves-notice-of.html -- www.mandgoa.blogspot.com MAND An adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) "Hari Smriti" 381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas, Goa. Pincode: 403 110 Visit my blog at http://www.openspaceforum.net/twiki/tiki-view_blog.php?blogId=17 _ Check out some new online services at Windows Live Ideas—so new they haven’t even been officially released yet. http://www.msnspecials.in/windowslive/
[Goanet] Police terror in Colamb Sanguem
According to just received today November 20 2007 reports from Colamb in Sanguem, that Goa Police attached to Quepem Police station have began terrorising the villagers. A group of 8Policemen came today in plain clothes at 6 pm and began threatening the villagers. they were searching Agnelo D'Souza, one of the villagers in forefront of protest against mining threatening to gobble up Colamb village. He had protested overvelmingly during Novemeber 18 2007 gram Sabha of the Rivona village panchayat and sought resulation seeking to ban further mining activity in Colamb. Villagers led by Milagrine Antao led the confrontation today against the police. Police are behaving in this manner to further the interest of the mining companies. -- www.mandgoa.blogspot.com MAND An adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) "Hari Smriti" 381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas, Goa. Pincode: 403 110 Visit my blog at http://www.openspaceforum.net/twiki/tiki-view_blog.php?blogId=17 _ Post ads for free - to sell, rent or even buy.www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=186
[Goanet] Fomento Mining continues ravaging Sanguem Forest
--- http://www.GOANET.org --- St. Mary's Convent High school, Mapusa is staging a play titled "Lion King" December 1, 2007 - Hanuman Hall, Mapusa to fundraise for a false ceiling for the school hall & upgrading the school playground Headmistress Sr. Namika A.C. / Teacher Mrs. Sonia Noronha [EMAIL PROTECTED] --- Click here for pictures: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/ In Goa there is begining of international film Festival as well as begining of hunger strike protests against Special Economic Zones (SEZs). But mining companies continues their ugly devastating trades in the deep interiors veins of Goa Causing unimaginable long term destruction of forests and people's livelihood options. Sanguem forest continues to be at the receiving end from Fomento mining at Colamb with an hurry to export ore to China amidst tight private security. In a latest move of the company over the past five days the company is involved with daring encroachments of forest area, in fact burring the forest alive once again. This time the company that owns five star hotel Cidade de Goa have dunged huge hole to the ground and after cutting forest trees are dumped inside the hole and covered with mud. Mining officials are clearly sitting with closed ears and closed eyes pretending they know nothing. Their office phones rings but no one wants to pick up the call to answer as their stomachs are understandably full of notes from mining companies, after all whose forest is it any way! Mining has such a power over earth and the life on it. The pristine forest of Sanguem and in Colamb is soon going to a history to be read by school children of the future. Mining companies are leaving no stone unturned - including the boundary stones to pursue and obey the rules of the market and capital. Children of the future will read in thier text book 'Once upon a time Goa was green, and mining companies like Timblos, Dempos, Chowgules, Salgaoncars and many others turned it red.' Hurry up go and have a look at Colamb, Sanguem while still some greenery remain, as it will disappear within next few months if major revolt does not come about. Sky is the limit for the mining greed. The exploitation will continue till last mineral ore is cracked under the soil and sold to the foreign countries like China and Foreign exchange is earned by the Union of India and all the agrarian livelihood options will be dissolved under in mining dust. It is time, indeed opportune time to further intensify movements against mining that are underway in Goa. People in Colamb are fighting, People in Rivona are fighting, People in Usgao are fighting, People in Sarvan are fighting, People in Amona-Naveli are fighting, People in Panchwadi are fighting. At last people all over are awakening. MAND experiences the rhythm of Protest. -- www.mandgoa.blogspot.com MAND An adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) "Hari Smriti" 381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas, Goa. Pincode: 403 110 _ Tried the new MSN Messenger? It’s cool! Download now. http://messenger.msn.com/Download/Default.aspx?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Internatioanal Human Rights Day Programme in Quepem, Goa
Gawda, Kunbi, Velip and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) will observe International Human Right Day in Quepem, Goa on Monday, December 10 2007 at 3.30 pm. The details of the programme includes procession and public meeting at Quepem town. Those interested to stand up for defence of peoples' rights specially adivasi rights in Goa are invited to participate in the programme. -- www.mandgoa.blogspot.com MAND An adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) "Hari Smriti" 381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas, Goa. Pincode: 403 110 _ Post ads for free - to sell, rent or even buy.www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=186
[Goanet] GAKUVED observes International Human Rights Day in Goa.
* * * 2007 ANNUAL GOANETTERS MEET - GOA * * * WHERE: Foodland Cafe - Miramar Residency - Miramar, Goa WHEN: December 27, 2007 @ 4:30pm More info: http://lists.goanet.org/pipermail/goanet-goanet.org/2007-December/066098.html Gawada, Kunbi, Velip and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) observed International Human Rights Day on December 10 2007 with a protest march and public meeting in South Goa's Quepem Town. Protest rally also marched to the Quepem police station and submitted the memorandum of demands. Memorandums was also submitted to Quepem deputy collector as well as deputy superintendent of Police, Queem. Later on Public meeting was organised at Quepem Town. Sebasatian Rodrigues, Coordinator, Mand, explained the importance of International Human Rights Day and need to defend Human rights of adivasi community in Goa particularly in relation to Forest, Real Estate and open cast mining activities. Dr. Audoot Prabhudesai told as to how the village Colamb is going to be affected by the mining activites and how water resources will get depleted, dust pollution, accidents on roads, how the school children are going to be affected in near by school. Arun Madgaonkar effects of the mining in Goa and how pe ople are going to be sufferers. He said that effects of mining remains for three hundred years till it retains its original fertility. He requested people to remain united to fight for ill effects that are going to be caused because of mining. Pravin Sabnis of Goa Bachao Abhiyan (GBA) sspoke about people from Keri and Verna villages that have stopped the SEZ work peacefully. He requested the people present to gather on 14th December at Lohia Maidan, Margao for a rally and meeting against SEZ. Ramesh Gauns gave details details about the mining activities that are talking place in Goa and its effects. He said that he is not against the mines but the violations of human rights by the mining companies with the help of local government. Kushali Gaonkar highlighted how the judiciary is delaying the matters of the citizens for years and frustrating the people; sometimes, withdraw the cases, at bureaucracy level also government is not taking any measures to expediate matters. Jitend ra Savoikar Explained how he is fighting against the mining company since last one year at Vathadev, Bicholim. He appealed to the people to be united and fight jointly. Devidas Gaonkar highlighted about the people in Khotigao village as to how they are harassed by the forest officials when adivasis go to forest to collect the fire wood. Forest officials snatches away the Koita - the traditional weapon of people without which they cannot live. He also highlighted about the trenches dug by the forest department blocking roads for the people as well as for cattle. Rama Velip from Colamb briefed about the agitation in Colamb village and how the common man is affected and going to be affected, water level being depleted, field becoming infertile, and dust pollution of the people staying around. Durgadas Gaonkar, GAKUVED President, addressing the gathering said that GAKUVED is working for the defence of adivasis and the motive behind observing this day is to protest violation o hu man rights at every level by the State as well and by mining lobby. Other members who spoke on the occasion were Palmira Dias, Jose Vaz, Adv. John Fernanades, Gajanand Raikar. Vote of thanks was proposes by Mathias Fernades. Pobre Fernandes compared the human rights day rally. (Report prepared with inputs from Babal Gawade, Ulhas Gaonkar and Anand Velip.) -- www.mandgoa.blogspot.comMANDAn adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED)"Hari Smriti"381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas,Goa. Pincode: 403 110 _ Post free property ads on Yello Classifieds now! www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=219 --- Spread the Christmas Cheer, even when you're not here! Send classic greetings to your loved ones in Goa. EXPRESSIONS - 2007 Christmas Hamper Visit http://www.goa-world.com/expressions/xmas/ Or e-mail <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> ---
[Goanet] Mining Officials held hostage, released at Colamb, Sanguem
* * * 2007 ANNUAL GOANETTERS MEET - GOA * * * WHERE: Foodland Cafe - Miramar Residency - Miramar, Goa WHEN: December 27, 2007 @ 4:30pm More info: http://lists.goanet.org/pipermail/goanet-goanet.org/2007-December/066098.html Two mining officials and eight workers of the Margao based Raissa mining services were held hostages by the Colamb villagers when they went there to inspects land to start mining mining activity on December 11 2007. Mining company officials disclosed that they were sent to the village by Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) of Goa Joaquim Alemao and presented MLA's visiting card as Managing Director of the Raissa Mining Services. The episode began at 10.30 am when gathered villagers surrounded mining company officials along with official from Colamb Communidade whom villagers suspect has been in collusion with the mining company to grant land for mining purspose at Borgalli Dongor, Colamb. Communidade official Venkatesh Pradhudessai managed to fled from the scene while company officials were caught by the group of around 40 villagers most of whom were women. Villagers fear that villagers life is going to become riskier if open cast mining comes up. Colamb village faces threat of getting wiped off from Map of Goa with mining land under mining leases covering 1510 hectares of total village land of 1929 hectares. Besides Joaquim Alemao, Fomentos are operating the mines in the village but also facing tremendous pressure from the village to close down due to severe damage to their agriculture. The villagers, mostly adivasis took the written undertakings form the mining officials G. Pravavananda and Jayaram that they will not visit again the village on behalf of Raissa mining Services " We today came to visit the mine. Once again we will not come to the same mine. We self and company members will not visit again Borgalli Dongor proposed mine and mine related activities." The workers who were detained by the villagers included Ashok G. palkar, Ramdas G. Gaonkar, Vijay, Madhu, Nilesh Naik, Prem Singh, Umesh Gaonkar and Kamjakar Gaonkar. Most of them are from nearby Sivsorem village where in Joaquim Alemao operates his open cast iron ore mine causing irreparable damage to environment and acute water shortages and dust pollution to the nearby villagers. Goa government however is letting theses corporates to rip through the very essence of Goa, its mountains in Sanguem and takula by keeping itself busy in the annual filmy shows of international standards; it is now left upto the common people to take assertion of their rights at a new level. Large protest rally on December 10 2007 organised by Gawda, Kunbi, Velip and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) in Quepem town is only the beginning of this assertion. Company officials and the workers were released at 1.00 pm only after police from Quepem Police Station came to Colamb and asked the villagers to target Colamb Communidade who is acting in collusion with the mining company. Sebastian Rodrigues www.mandgoa.blogspot.com MAND An adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) "Hari Smriti" 381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas, Goa. Pincode: 403 110 _ Post free property ads on Yello Classifieds now! www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=219 --- Spread the Christmas Cheer, even when you're not here! Send classic greetings to your loved ones in Goa. EXPRESSIONS - 2007 Christmas Hamper Visit http://www.goa-world.com/expressions/xmas/ Or e-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ---
[Goanet] Colomba Communidade succumbing to mining Land acqusition
* * * 2007 ANNUAL GOANETTERS MEET - GOA * * * WHERE: Foodland Cafe - Miramar Residency - Miramar, Goa WHEN: December 27, 2007 @ 4:30pm More info: http://lists.goanet.org/pipermail/goanet-goanet.org/2007-December/066098.html Even while people of Colomba are up in arms against annihilation of their village under open cast iron ore and manganese leases, its Communidade seems to be betraying the villagers. At a proceedings of land acquisition in Margaon yesterday 14th December 2007 attorney of Colomba Communidade Venkatesh Prabhudesai argued that Communidade is willing to give its land provided mining company is willing to build temple for the village. This statement from the attorney who all this while was arguing against open cast iron ore mining in Colomba has shocked the Colomba villagers who were present during the hearing of the case. Going by this irresponsible position taken by the attorney all the proposed mining will have their way once they build religious structures. Nexus of religions and mining companies are well known in Goa. Dempos have sponsored large amounts of funds for a temple at Mulgao - and yet Mulgao is under mining pollution particularly its water bodies, it is also sponsoring annual Hindu festival called 'Novo Somar' in Bicholim - and Bicholim is swallowed by Dempo mining Corporation, Dempos are also sponsoring Pejeachem Fest in Siridao in Tiswadi - yet Siridao land is unscrupulously taken over by Dempos. Dempos are responsible for massive degredation of Environment, water depletion and dust pollution in Bicholim taluka and other parts of Goa. This nexus is proving its existence once again in Colomba village with Communidade attorney playing the traitor to the village. Communidade of Colomba's lands originally belongs to the adivasi people - Gawdas and Velips. However they were cheated during the Portuguese colonial rule and their land were transferred into the Brahmin's control. Now this land is sought to be handed over to the mining company to be operated by MLA Joaquim Alemao's Raissa Mining Services based in Margao. The adivasis were losers when their lands were transferred to communidades during Portuguese colonial rule, and now they stand to loose every thing even the breathing of clean and safe air. Goa's liberation did not reverse this trend, instead it's land continued under the Brahmin's control and there has never been demand for handing over land of communidades back to the adivasis to whom it originally belonged. This is largely because of lack of education and conscientization to this effect. However the situation is fast changing and these questions are gadually being raised. It is only a matter of time before their voice becomes a roar. Mining of this land is a part of larger plan to mine 1510 hectares of this village land. The village has total of 1929 hectares of land. This is indeed very serious and alarming situation that may lead to major contests. Land acquisition proceedings are underway to take over 87.8530 Hectares of pristine forest land under the control of Communidade of Colomba. Proceedings are going on before the Special land acquisition officer, Additional Collector Prassanna Acharya in Margao Goa. The land acquisition proceedings began with application to this effect by the Lease Concession holder of T. C. no. 18/1804/1956 M/s Marzook & Cadar Pvt. Ltd. on 19th September 2007. The case number of this dangerous land acquisition for open cast iron ore mining is 1-2007/mining/company/AC1/32. The case is being contested between M/s Marzook & Cadar Pvt. Ltd. versus the two respondents namely, Administrator of Communidade, South Goa and Communidade of Colomba through their attorney. This mining lease like all other leases in Goa was granted by the earstwhile Portugal colonial government in 1956. Goa attained its so called liberation in 1961 yet the actions of colonial government continues to be valid in 'liberated' Goa Communidade seems to have no regrets on forgoing its surface rights. It is indeed the cause of Goa's peril that such as Communidade of Colomba and its attorneys are in existence. It is now up to the common people to defend their village from mining company, mining contractor as well as Communidade of Colomba. Sebastian Rodrigues _ Post free property ads on Yello Classifieds now! www.yello.in http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=221 --- Spread the Christmas Cheer, even when you're not here! Send classic greetings to your loved ones in Goa. EXPRESSION
[Goanet] Goa Liberation day, mining and Police threats in Goa
* * * * *http://www.goanet.org* * * * * Stage Play: ON THE HOLY TRAIL Staged By: The Mustard Seed Art Company Where: Kala Academy - Mini Open-air Auditorium When: Dec 20 & 21, 2007 @ 7pm Read a Review at: http://lists.goanet.org/pipermail/goanet-goanet.org/2007-December/066558.html Even while Goa celebrated its Liberation day yesterday with various flags hosting in various parts of Goa, for the villagers of Cavrem in Quepem and Colamb in Sanguem it was different story; they faced police threats for protesting against the open cast mining threats. Ever since Gawada Kunbi Velip and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) organised its Human Rights Day Rally in Quepem town, mining industry is at the receiving end with number of villages gearing to battle mining industry. In Caurem village in Pirla Panchayat limit villagers stormed three mining sites of different mining companies such as Fomentos, Dinar Tarcar, and brought the entire process of operation to the grinding halt since December 11 2007. In Colamb group of villagers entered Fomentos mining site operated in lease area of Khodidas Hiralal forced the company to the work on December 19 2007. Police from Quepem Police station came searching the villagers at 11.50 am on December 19 2007. However they were forced to beat hasty retreat away by the angry village women of Colamb. In Cavrem village, Fomento mining company throw its contractor Ashok Naik threatened the villagers led by Kushali Velip with forcibly starting this illegal mining activity with the deployment of 600 Personnel from Goa Police force. According the reports received late last evening, Fomento mining company was busy coercing the villagers to enter into the agreement to start mining activity again with the promise that it will finance renovation of existing temple in Cavrem village at the cost of Rs.2 Crores, a promise that company had given to the villagers during past three and half years. It is now remains to be seen if this carrot and stick policy of the mining company works on the villagers. If Fomento mining company succeeds in getting 600 police personnel for Goa Police and re-start its illegal mining activity then it would be understood that Avdooth Timblo is Goa's de facto Home Minister that posseses such a command to violate human rights of Cavrem adivasi villagers and s lit open pristine green mountains of Maina-Cavrem. Time is going to be the greatest witness as to how things are going to unfold in near future. In the meanwhile GAKUVED organised Public interactive meeting in Cavrem, Quepem to asses the fruits of Goa Liberation for the adivasis of Goa on December 19 2007. Durgadas Gaonkar, GAKUVED Presedent, highlighted the role of Colamb Communidade is marginalizing and ultimately eliminating Velips from the Communidade records of the village. Kushali Velip from Cavrem village explained the problems faced by the villagers due to open cast iron mining and how the villagers united to assert thier rights. Rama Velip from Colamb shared his views about tackling mining industry of Goa and need to creat inter village solidarity to stop official government machinery and mining industry harrasing the villagers. Ulhas Gaonkar from Morpilla shared about the ongoing struggle of his villagers against proposed Bauxite mining on Quepem-Salcete border covering 300 hactares of fertile land. He aslo shared about struggle against Vijay Mallya's proposal to set beer factory and villagers opposition to the same. Advocate John Fernanades from Ambaulim explained that most of the people who took money from mining companies and sold thier land have suffered in thier lives. He also touched upon the depletion of water table due to mining that is going to cause in the Cavrem village in case mining begins again. Devidas Gaonkar from Khotigao explained about harrasment meted out to the adivasis inside Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary and registered his protest about the same. Anand Velip dealt on the great suffering of agriculture caused because of mining in Sanguem Taluka. He also shared his experience in fighting mining company in his village of Valkini in Sanguem taluka. Motesh Antao of Colamb stressed need for mining truck drivers to engage in protest against mining industry as the drivers job as well as life of their truck is short term while the agriculture that is being destryed by mining industry is a sustainer for generations together. Sebastian Rodrigues, Cordinator of MAND explained how Portugues colonial legacy in Goa is being perpetuated through mining industry and congratulated the villagers for opposing mining in thier village though various mean
[Goanet] Barxem Shigmo Pictures
--- 2008 International Goan Convention Toronto, Canada Early Bird Discount Registration closes March 31, 2008 http://www.2008goanconvention.com/regform_print.html --- Hello! Traditional Barxem Shigmo festival pictures are online. Please visit below links: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/03/barxem-shigmo-pictures_24.html Warmly, Seby _ Video: Get a glimpse of the latest in Cricket, Bollywood, News and Fashion. Only on MSN videos. http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Police repression yet again in Colamb
--- 2008 International Goan Convention Toronto, Canada Early Bird Discount Registration closes March 31, 2008 http://www.2008goanconvention.com/regform_print.html --- Police repression yet again in Colamb Twenty one Colamb villagers were picked up by Police at the instruction of Deputy Collector Johnson Fernandes from the Khodidas Hiralal mining site at 4.00 pm today March 25, 2008. The villagers were protesting the granting of permission to use the road for transportation of Ore through Forest by Forest department. 16 male constables and 6 lady constables engaged to arrest 16 Women and 5 men. Women were picked up by male constables – manhandled with some women complaining missing of their gold ornaments on their bodies during the scuffle with the police on the mining site. Joint mamlatdar of Sanguem Amol Gaonkar, Sanguem Police Inspector Ramesh Gaonkar, Quepem Police Inspector Naresh Mhamel and Deputy Supritendent of Police Patre were other senior officers that acted to facilitate the arrests of the Colamb villagers. Colamb villagers that are taken at the Quepem Police Station for the purpose of arrests are as follows: Purso Gaonkar, Vipoda Goankar, Arjun Velip, Sitaram Velip, Chandrakand Gaonkar, Andrew Antao, Salu Dias, Egyps D’Souza, Telu Dias, Jerone Fernandes, Jaya Raikar, Rasika Goankar, Zayu Gaonkar, Vitem Velip, Chandrakala Goankar, Sulaksha Goankar, Prashanti Velip, Palmira Fernandes, Dumen D’Souza, Sunita Gaonkar, Shaobavati Amolkar, Celina Dias, Milagrine Antao and Consi Antao. According to the reports, as soon as people were removed the mining site and put into police vehicles – to be taken at the Quepem Police Station - mining company started transportation of Ore through forest with its trucks. Earlier in the day mining company - Fomentos was stopped from opening of the road for transporting the Iron Ore at 10.00 am. Mining company then was provided police protection under the supervision of Quepem PI and the officer of the rank of deputy collector to make the arrests at 4.00 pm. The road that was opened up by the mining company through forest route was stopped by the villagers as the mining activity negatively affected their agriculture and water sources due to siltation of field and drying up of natural springs. One of the villagers Rama Velip along with Dr. Avadooth Prabhudessai and Goa Foundation had gone to the High Court on this issue. High Court admitted the petition on March 10 2008, though it did not grant any interim relief for closure of the mine. The case came up for the hearing again on March 24 2008 when the affidavits were filed before the court by Department of Mines and Geology, Forest department, and mining company Hiralal Khodidas. Forest department produced the letter of permission for the use of controversial road for the mining company signed by Conservator of Forests dated March 20 2008. This letter is clear indication as to the extend to which the Forest department and the mining company are hands in gloves with. It took just 10 days to get the road for mining purpose though the forest land! This is indeed amazing considering that even after 5 years and 33 hearings forest department is yet to file its affidavit in Soiru Sawant’s case. Here is the text of the letter the Office of the conservator of Forests, Maratha Samaj Building, Vivekaand Road, Panaji dated March 20 2008 bearing No.- 6 – 13(174) -97 – FD and addressed to the Deputy conservator of forest, South Goa, Margao with the Subject ‘Permission for use of Forest Road passing through survey no 72 of village Colomba of Sanguem Taluka of South Goa & Survey no. 2 of Curpem Village’: Ref: 1) Your letter no. 6/439/SGF/2007-08/3098 dated 19/03/2008 2) Your letter no. 6/439/SGF/2007-08/3013 dated 13/03/2008 With reference to the above cited subject and your letters and as recommended by you, permission is herewith granted to use a stretch of 400 meters Long Forest Road of about 6 meters in width passing through the survey no.72 of Colomba Village and survey no.2 of Curpem Village in Sanguem Taluka for transportation of ore by M/S Hiralal Khodidas from T.C. no. 06/49 in survey no. 51/1, 68, 71, of Colomba village. This permission is given to avoid transportation of Ore by trucks through narrow road passing through a cluster of dwelling houses in village which causes heavy pollution and is opposed by the villagers. The permission to use Forest Road is subject to the following conditions. 1) Payment for the cost of fencing on either side of the road and erection of gate at the start of the road. 2) Payment of wear and tear of the road as demanded by the department. 3) Salary of the two field staff to be deputed for protection.
[Goanet] Brave Colamb Women in defence of their land
Brave Colamb Women in defence of their land, pictures online at link: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/03/brave-colamb-women-in-defence-of-their.html In Solidarity, Seby -- www.mandgoa.blogspot.com MAND An adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) "Hari Smriti" 381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas, Goa. Pincode: 403 110 _ Tried the new MSN Messenger? It’s cool! Download now. http://messenger.msn.com/Download/Default.aspx?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] GAKUVED Condemns Police Atrocities on Colamb Villagers
Gawda, Kunbi, Velip & Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) Condemns attack and arrest of Colamb villagers by Goa Police attached to Quepem Police Station on 25-03-2008. Villagers had gathered near the mining site to defend their livelihood and dignity that is being constantly infringed upon by Mining leases No. 06/1949 operated by Fomentos. Police while arresting deployed male constables resulting in physical attacks on female villagers and in this process Smt. Dument D'Souza, Smt. Kalavati Velip, Smt. Palmira Dias, Smt. Vithubai Velip and Smt Shobhavati Amolkar were subjected to physical injuries and insults from male police officials. GAKUVED demands strict action against the police officials involved in this matter. Also police must refrain from further harrasment of the villagers protesting mining activities in Colamb. Durgadas Goankar President, GAKUVED -- www.mandgoa.blogspot.com MAND An adivasi-rights resource centre, An initiative of Gawda, Kunbi, Velip, and Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) "Hari Smriti" 381, Dhulapi, Corlim, Ilhas, Goa. Pincode: 403 110 _ Video: Get a glimpse of the latest in Cricket, Bollywood, News and Fashion. Only on MSN videos. http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-in
Re: [Goanet] [Goanet-News] Re Goa news for March 28, 2008
And what about all the 791 mining leases operating in 11% of Goa's geography all illegal? That is biggest threat to the very sustainance of life in Goa - Water? We have to fight mining SUNAMI more urgently than anything else. By targetting migrant labour we only protect Goa's biggest ememy - the mining industry. Seby On 3/28/08, [EMAIL PROTECTED] <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > > Dear All Goans, > We are fighting on net on various issues, we are fighting > with the neighbours at home,we are fighting on languages, we are fighting on > road, we are fighting all along our day in day out in Goa, for Goa, with > Goans for Goans against Goans.And in Goa we are eliminating ourself very > fast that we will put rabbits to shame on their multiplication abilities > with speed and we see all over Goa migrants(illegally occupying spaces for > living)multiplying their business( again illegally occupying areas) are > comming as SUNAMIS. wake up Goans these elected representatives get elected > on ur vote and rule u to give all thehelping hands to all these migrants to > establish their rights in Goa as HGoans. > utt Goenkara > Amol Navelkar > Original Message --- > Goa News from Google News and Goanet.org > Visit http://www.goanet.org/newslinks.php for the full stories. > > *** Scarlett\'s body brought to Mumbai from Goa - Hindustan > Times > [5 hours ago] PTI Slain British teenage girl Scarlett Eden > Keeling's body was brought to Mumbai from Goa on Thursday > evening, more than a month after she was found dead ... > > http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=T&ct=us/0-0&fd=R&url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/redir.aspx?ID=5df94265-d774-4949-9fb2-0e35df0fdef1&cid=1144694000&ei=-i3sR8fCJJq4qwPKhNHBBA&usg=AFrqEzdrrzescOGQU3BHEiB3y998mtPL2w > > *** Goa government drops trust motion on Speaker - Hindu > [4 hours ago] PANAJI: The Goa government on Thursday beat a > retreat and refrained from tabling a motion expressing > confidence of the House in Pratapsingh Rane as Speaker ... > > http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=T&ct=us/1-0&fd=R&url=http://www.hindu.com/2008/03/28/stories/2008032854991300.htm&cid=1146355640&ei=-i3sR8fCJJq4qwPKhNHBBA&usg=AFrqEzdnaS-EkNYX5R3jPGfUkXcM0oYX2g > > *** Goa Property Show attracts 3000 home seekers - Times of > India > [Mar 26, 2008] 1 property site, conducted the Goa Property > Show ˜Delhi 2008 it had a strong 3000 home seekers > thronging the two-day event. The event was inaugurated by ... > > http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=T&ct=us/3-0&fd=R&url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Goa_Property_Show_attracts_3000_home_seekers/articleshow/2902449.cms&cid=1146035251&ei=-i3sR8fCJJq4qwPKhNHBBA&usg=AFrqEzd3j_eLSAw1u2DTvP8ri9qG_W-THg > > *** Mitsubishi Pajero SFX launched in Goa - Navhind Times > [3 hours ago] The all new Mitsubishi Pajero SFX was today > launched in Goa by the Minister of Transport, Mr Sudin Dhavlikar > in Auto Service. The first vehicle was also ... > > http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=T&ct=us/9-0&fd=R&url=http://www.navhindtimes.com/articles.php?Story_ID=032832&cid=0&ei=-i3sR8fCJJq4qwPKhNHBBA&usg=AFrqEzcMJOS0HugYofxRLSX1pgofPABMxg > > *** Bharti AXA Life Insurance launches operations in Goa - > Navhind Times > [3 hours ago] Speaking at the launch, the chief distribution > and marketing officer of Bharti AXA Life Insurance,Mr Shyamal > Saxena said, published data reveals that Goa ... > > http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=T&ct=us/8-0&fd=R&url=http://www.navhindtimes.com/articles.php?Story_ID=032831&cid=0&ei=-i3sR8fCJJq4qwPKhNHBBA&usg=AFrqEzeHZBCRJIcinjc2z3OI1l3edIVt7Q > > *** Jotun to strengthen presence in Goa - Navhind Times > [3 hours ago] Commenting on the company€„¢s plans > for Goa, the general manager, decorative, Mr Percy Jijina, said, > €ÅWe have closely assessed the Indian paint sector ... > > http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=T&ct=us/7-0&fd=R&url=http://www.navhindtimes.com/articles.php?Story_ID=032828&cid=0&ei=-i3sR8fCJJq4qwPKhNHBBA&usg=AFrqEzd0dW0cZnYtXYvu0Qki57XqcfHK6w > > *** Goan with the Wind - MorungExpress > [8 hours ago] The Goa portrait had a couple at a church > wedding in bridal finery: the lady in a flowing gown, her > partner in a jacket and tie. The publication sparked off ... > > http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=T&ct=us/6-0&fd=R&url=http://www.morungexpress.com/index.php?news=4772&cid=0&ei=-i3sR8fCJJq4qwPKhNHBBA&usg=AFrqEzecBTw6nSIUyAB_O1NRgS_Q0fYWZg > > *** Rahejas challenge Goa govts order to scrap SEZ - Economic > Times > [26 minutes ago] PANAJI: Real estate major K Raheja has > challenged the Goa governments decision to scrap the approved > SEZ before the Bombay High Court. ... > > http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=T&ct=us/5-0&fd=R&url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/Markets/Real_Estate/Rahejas_challenge_Goa_govts_order_to_scrap_SEZ/articleshow/2905626.cms&cid=0&ei=-i3sR8fCJJq4qwPKhNHBBA&usg=AFrqEzejPuzRFqarkChTSb2fIxkduDUWpw > > *** Liquor to cost more in Goa - Economic Times > [Mar 26, 2008] Consumption
[Goanet] GAKUVED march (padyatra) against land grabbing
The Gawada, Kunbi, Velip & Dhangar Federation (GAKUVED) has organised a March (Padyatra) on Sunday, 6th April 2008 From Kadamba bus stand to Old Goa via New by pass, Kadamba Plateau at 9.00 a.m The march (padyatra) is organised to bring attention of Government and general Public regarding land grabbing and selling it to capital loaded outsiders. The march is organised by GAKUVED under the leadership of its General Secretary Shri Pandurang R. Kunkalkar which will start at 9.00 am from Kadamba bus stand via New by pass, Kadamba Plateau up to Old Goa and will be concluded at Gandhi Circle. It is appealed to the general public to participate in the march (padayatra) and extend Solidarity. http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/ _ Tried the new MSN Messenger? It’s cool! Download now. http://messenger.msn.com/Download/Default.aspx?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Now exclusive roads for mining industry in Goa
As if the amount of land gobbled by mining industry is not enough for Goa's burden, State administration is planning exclusive new roads and by passes for the mining industry in this tiny State of Goa in India. Read the following document to believe how mining companies and the State administration sat together and took decisions to build new infrastrture for mining industry. They however are silent to mention as to whose land will be aquired. Adivasis already lost huge tracks of lands for the mining leases and this is going to be additional burden if roads are taken through agricultural fields and forests. But State Government as well as mining industry does not care for all this after all. MINUTES OF THE MEETING REGARDING TO DISCUSS THE TRAFFIC CONGESTION PROBLEMS AND OTHER MINING RELATED ISSUES ALONG PONTEMOL/MIRABAG ROAD HELD ON 14/03/2008 AT 3.30 P.M. IN THE CHAMBER OF THE DISTRICT MAGISTRATE, SOUTH GOA, MARGAO. The meeting was chaired by the District Magistrate and the following Officials were present. 1. Shri. P. M. Nagarcenkar, Mamlatdar of Sanguem. 2. Shri Nilu Raut Dessai, Dy. Supt. of Police (Traffic), Margao. 3. The Police Inspector, Curchorem Police Station. 4. Shri Santosh K. Naik, of M/s Smt Ahiliabai Sardessai, Kirpal. 5. Shri M. K. Bhagat, of M/s Smt Ahiliabai Sardessai, Kirpal. 6. Shri Subramany of M/s SMI, Tatodi, Sanguem. 7. Shri Manuel Da Costa, Tudou – Paliem, Sanguem. 8. Shri Amiya Kumar Pali, of M/s G. N. Agarwal 9. Shri V. B. Nair, of M/s Atmaram Palandikar. 10. Shri Pedro F. Dias of M/s Kunda Gharse. 11. Shri A. S. Patil of M/s Chowgule & Company, Costi. 12. Shri P. T. Naidu of Hiralal Khodidas. 13. Shri D. Veeranjangule of M/s Talaulikar & Sons (p) Ltd. 14. Shri Saroj Kumar of M/s R.R. Paiginkar. 15. Shri Manoj Paryekar of M/s B.H. Mavani. 16. Shri Gokuldas Naik of M/s Mineira Nacional Ltd. Cuddegal. 17. Shri C. H. Srinivasa Chary of M/s N.S. Narvenkar, Kalay Mine. 18. Shri Narayan M. Naik, Mine Foreman of M/s S.R.V.S. Verenkar. 19. Shri Rampukar D. V. of M/s Velingkar 20. Shri Sabale A.L. of M/s Velingkar 21. M/s Seva (Balkrishna Avade), Sangod, Sanguem. 22. M/s Marzook and Cadar Ltd., Dharbandora, Sanguem. 23. M/s Sosociedade Timblo Irmaos (P.T.I) Shigao, Sanguem. 24. M/s V. S. Dempo & Company Ltd, Dudal, Sanguem. 25. M/s V. M. Salgaonkar & Brothers, Algote, Sanguem. 26. M/s Amelia Figueiredo, Curpem, Sanguem 27. M/s Emco Goa Pvt. Ltd, Bimbol, Sanguem. At the outset the District Magistrate welcomed the Officials present and explained that the meeting is basically convened on account of complaints being received from general public regarding parking of mining trucks on the road due to which traffic congestion occurs on account of restrictions of timings imposed for mining trucks entering the Curchorem Town between 7.00 A.M. to 8.00 A.M. and 1.00 P.M. to 2.00 P.M. pursuant to order issued by the Hon’ble High Court. 1. The District Magistrate explained that there is every possibility of public again approaching the Hon’ble High Court on account of traffic congestion being caused by parking of mining trucks on roads due to restrictions of timings between 7.00 a.m to 8.00 a.m and 1.00 p.m. to 2.00 p.m pursuant to order issued by the Hon’ble High Court. 2. The District Magistrate further informed that P.W.D. cannot widen the roads beyond the acquired area and wherever possible the roads have been widened. 3. The District Magistrate also informed that the mining trucks can be detained at mining site and allow them to ply before 15 minutes especially at noon time so that they can reach at Curchorem after 2.00 pm. All the mining Officials present have agreed to stop the loading activities at the mines from 12.00 noon. 4. The District Magistrate informed all the Officials present to discuss with their higher ups to explore possibility of constructing a road from Uguem to Panchwadi (Capxem) through Mineral Foundation so that the same can be used for mining activities only and can be declared as Mining Road. Pending the decision for construction of this road, the District Magistrate suggested that at least the road of 4 kms may be taken up at the initial stages from Santona to Capxem. The District Magistrate informed that the process of acquisition of land shall be done by the Government on payment of cost and will be handed over to Mineral Foundation for construction of the said road. 5. The District Magistrate informed all concerned also to explore the possibility of acquiring 5000 sq. mts of land near Sanvordem Tisk junction for parking lot and repairs of mining trucks. 6. The District Magistrate also informed to explore the possibility of construction of road from Ambaulim junction to Tilamol junction bye passing Quepem Town for the mining trucks coming from Caurem-Pirla side. 7. The District Magistrate instructed all concerned that for the time being to strictly maintain the restriction of timings of mining trucks
[Goanet] Colamb villagers warn Fomentos of Nandigram-like situation
Colamb villagers today warned Fomento mining company of Nandigram-like situation in case it tries to break the unit of the villagers and villagers unity with number of organisations including GAKUVED, Goa Foundation, and Goa Bachao Abhiyan. This warning was served to the Fomentos today afternoon when the company official Joe J. Louis, Executive Director of both Infrastructure Logistics Private Limited - dealing with mining on behalf of Fomentos as well as Cidade de Goa - 5 star hotel of Fomentos visited Sulcorna Don Bosco Society and tried to initiate 'talk' with the couple of villagers along with a Salesian Priest. Joe J. Louis, according to Hanumant Porob of Pissurlem has been the brain behind getting Hanumant arrested due to his opposition to mining in Sattari. Fomentos have invested their profits into Cidade de Goa from the huge gains from Pissurlem mines letting its pristine beauty, water sources and Agriculture go to dogs. Fomentos is one of the culprits along with Damodar Mangalji, Salgaokars and Sesa Goa. Today Joe J Louis was campaigning against Goa Foundation, GAKUVED, and Goa Bachao Abhiyan (GBA) and asked the villagers to keep these organisations away and get into negotiation with the Company. These organisations according to Joe J Louis are funded by competing mining companies to oppose Fomentos. Not only Mr. Louis does not want these organisations, he also does not want the rest of the villagers too for he knows that villagers angers will be enough for Fomento team to retreat back to Cidade de Goa. Joe J Louis also informed the villagers that the son of his boss is all exited due to the negative publicity that has attracted its Colamb mines particularly on the Internet. He took name of Seby Rodrigues as amongst most hated by Fomentos. Earlier South Goa Collector Gokuldas Naik faced wrath of the Colamb villagers on April 12 2008 when he was accused of siding with the mining company. Collector was told by Motesh Antao that Fomentos should carry on mining activity in Margao where its Public Hearing was conducted and not in Colamb. Collector was warned that in case Fomentos decides to resume Ore transportation then there is going to be law and order problem and he alone will be responsible for the same. Collector was questioned as to how in spite of Gram Sabha resolution opposing mining how can authorities permit this when Gram Sabha is supreme deciding authority. Panicked Fomentos then decided to press emergency buttons and put their highest officials on diplomatic mission. he phone up Durgadas Gaonkar, President of GAKUVED, then he phoned up Sebastian Rodrigues but received no result from any of the calls. The day is not far when in case Fomentos does de-silt Colamb People's Agriculture then soon Silt will take its natural course into Cidade de Goa's Swimming Pools for tourists to enjoy with love from Goa's mines. Sebastian Rodrigues _ Technology : Catch up on updates on the latest Gadgets, Reviews, Gaming and Tips to use technology etc. http://computing.in.msn.com/
[Goanet] Struggle against Casteism in Goa
It is a birth anniversary Ambedkar today - the man who stood up steadfastly for human dignity - yet the caste system continues to haunt Goa. One of the latest examples is that of Thoklo Parwar, sweeper in Navodaya Vidyalaya in Valpoi, Sattari, Goa. He is a Dalit and higher Caste Principal of the institution have tortured him cruelly. Goa's well known Dalit Marathi Writer, Poet and Photographer Dadu Mandrekar took up his cause along with the Dalit organisation YUGNAYAK. Police are also collaborating with the school Pricipal on this count and even though Thoklo had filed complaint on March 11 2008 Valpoi Police Station has not registered the case till date. YUGNAYAK too has written to the Valpoi PI for taking of speedy action but to no avail. Trupti Thoklo Parwar has written to Goa State Women's Commision in this regard. Posting you these documents. Any feedback or support my be communicated directly to Dadu Mandrekar at his mobile 09423058881. From: Smt. Trupti Thoklo Parmar, Thane, Sattari, Goa. To Chairperson, State Women's Commission, Panaji, Goa. Date: 12th April 2008 Subject: Harassment and mental torture to my husband Thoklo Parwar, and devastation of our lives and home. Dear Madam, My husband is working in Navodaya Vidyalaya, Valpoi for last 14 years as sweeper-cum-Chowkidar. His daily schedule for the past 14 years is to clean latrines in the morning session and in the afternoon he performs duty as Chowkidar. With institution getting expanded with 32 latrines and 26 bathrooms with several more urinals and verandahs. Thoklo has to clean all this daily. In spite of performing his duties honestly and sincerely, his work was never appreciated by the Institution. On the contrary he was repeatedly served with memos with dire warnings of taking action under CC rules. Intention of Memos was not to rectify his mistakes if committed but to mentally torture and harass him. Several times he urged the Institution as well as to the deputy commissioner based in Pune not to issue him such kind of memos as he is totally illiterate and get the work done in amicable manner. But none of his requests were heeded to neither by the Institution nor by deputy commissioner in Pune. Instead deputy commissioner has given free hand to the institution head to torture and take whatever action as per the whims and fancies of the Institution head. He was left with no authority favorable to his requests. Further without any of his faults he was transferred from Valpoi, Goa State to thousands of kilometers away to Rajkot, Gujarat. The Valpoi institution officially informed the Rajkot Institution about Thoklo. Consequently they too frequently issued him memos, and to get replies to each of them he used to visit Goa from his contacts because there was no one to help him with drafting replies to memos. He was completely isolated there as the language as well as the surrounding was unfamiliar. His salary was between 3000 to 4000 rupees. All his salary was getting exhausted on his travels alone leaving nothing for home expenses. Deputy commissioner's office was merciless and cruel towards Thoklo and his family. The present situation after transfer to Goa is worse than this as the present in-charge of the institution has caused immense insults and torture and issued several memos without any cause. When we were completing 60 years of our independence Thoklo was not even treated as a dignified citizen of India by the Principal of the institution and served dire warning in writing threatening to action against him under CC conduct rule. Deadline for reply was 14th August 2007. In response to this warning memo of 14th August 2007 he has given detail reply and requested the principal to treat him like his younger brother and get the work done from him. This too had no effect and memos have continued to rain down from principal's office to Thoklo. The present Principal forcefully allotted residential quarters to him even though his house is near 8 kilometers from the place of work with very good transport facility. Monthly deduction for this purpose is Rs.1000/- from his salary without taking possession of the quarters. This is a great injustice to us. With this harassment my husband is mentally devastated, my whole family including my blind very old mother mother-in-law, my very small child of one year who is not healthy, and my mental health has devastated. I cannot bear these circumstances hence forth. This situation has arisen only because of negligence of deputy commissioner's office in Pune. With this background I would like to request you to kindly investigate this whole matter impartially at your level and help to stabilize my home and my family again. Hope to receive your positive reply as early as possible. Yours faithfully, Sd/- ( Smt. Trupti Thoklo Parwar) Copy to Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson, UPA Government, New Delhi
[Goanet] New uploads at Mandgoa
The following three new uploads are available on www.mandgoa.blogspot.com 1. T.B.Cunha on mining trade in Goa: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/04/t-b-cunha-on-mining-trade-in-goa.html 2. Pissurlem, Mining and Living: Photo Essay: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/04/pissurlem-mining-and-living-photo-essay.html 3. SOCIO – POLITICAL COMMUNITY RESPONSE TO ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION IN SALELI : CHAOS THEORY By Dr. Bikram Das Gupta: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/04/socio-political-community-response-to.html Warmly, Seby _ Education: Are exams worrying you all the day long? Write to MSN education experts for help. http://education.in.msn.com/
[Goanet] Advalpal villagers force stop Sesa Goa mine
About 50 Advalpal villagers - mostly women - today morning marched to the Sesa Goa mine forcing the mine to close down its operation. The concerned Sesa Goa mine T.C. no. 76/52 was is threatening village water sources. Villagers united to drive away Sesa Goa from their village. In fact the villagers are up in arms against the mining activities in the village and movement against the same is going on since 2005. Besides multinational Sesa Goa - owned by British company Vedanta- Salgaocars (T.C. no. 41/55) and Lithoferro (T.C. No. 89/52) are other two companies that are proving to be pests to the Advalpal villagers. Around 1,500 strong people of this village are at the receiving end of the mining menace. The companies and the State authorities so far have been able to 'manage' the village protest by use of Carrot and stick policy - Companies have dished out cash to those willing to accept while Police has been used to silence the protests so far. DySp Shamba Sawant who has been recently transferred from Bicholim was the worse of the lot in threatening the Advalpal villagers. However it is not going to be too long that the situation will go out of control of the mining companies as well as the State authorities in case it refuses to heed to the voices of the People. Saleli and Colamb have already created history in Goa. Advalpal may very well be next to follow. This is particularly so because Police have registered criminal cases against the villagers on trespass charges. Sesa Goa has been instrumental in getting cases filed against 20 villagers of Advalpal. It is not just the common people that are criminally targeted by Sesa Goa but also village Sarpanch Harischandra Sawal has been targeted - politically. The Sesa Goa was served notice on illegal weigh bridge by the village panchayat; in response company got involved in dislodging village Sarpanch. So here is the case mining companies are not only involved in kingmaker roles for the Goa State Assembly members and Chief Ministers but also involved in dislodging of village Panchayat Sarpanch. The audacity of British company to file cases against the local villages is so clearly like the case of British East India Company that ultimately captured whole of India. After 61 years of Independence we have another British Company doing the same for the Advalpal villagers. Through this action it is nurturing new breed of freedom fighters against Imperialism. Considering the behaviour of the Sesa Goa it is not difficult to imagine the kind of shape Goa is going to take in future to come about. Sebastian Rodrigues in discussion with Shamsundar Pundalik Naik www.mandgoa.blogspot.com _ Education: Are exams worrying you all the day long? Write to MSN education experts for help. http://education.in.msn.com/
[Goanet] Truth escapes from the cracks in the wall!
Truth escapes from the cracks in the wall. Visit to know how: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/04/truth-escapes-from-cracks-in-wall.html Warmly, Seby _ Video: Get a glimpse of the latest in Cricket, Bollywood, News and Fashion. Only on MSN videos. http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Demand for dismissal of South Goa Collector
Resolution was passed at a public meeting called by GAKUVED in Colamb, Sanguem to demand dismissal of the South Goa Collector Gokuldas Naik for his high handed behavior with Colamb villagers on 12th April 2008 at his office in Margao. Villagers had visited him on his invitation to discuss contentious Colamb mining issue. The collector in a bid to force the villagers to let the Fomento mining company to transport Iron Ore threatened to deploy Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel to bulldoze villagers’ opposition to the mining activities in their village in T. C. No. 06/1949. Further collector threatened to transport the Ore till 10.00 pm in the night to teach villagers a lesson. More dangerously he termed the local Gram Sabha resolution to oppose mining activities in Colamb village as invalid. Collector defended the venue of the Public hearing of for this mine being in Margao even though laws point out that it should have been done at the venue. Collector was in fact directed to ensure that this mine is closed down by the Goa Pollution Control Board in its letter revoking Consent to operate on 14th March 2008. Earlier this collector was responsible to provide Police security cover to Fomentos that resulted in arrests of Colamb villagers and unleashing of Police Violence. The collector though is a public servant, has failed miserably to uphold dignity of his office and is functioning as private agents of the Fomentos mining company – that is engaged in activities detrimental to the Public interest in Colamb. Meeting resolved to contact various organizations across Goa to press for the support to demand dismissal of South Goa Collector Gokuldas Naik. http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/04/demand-for-dismissal-of-south-goa.html _ Video: Get a glimpse of the latest in Cricket, Bollywood, News and Fashion. Only on MSN videos. http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] New uploads on Mand blog
Few new uploads on Mandgoa blog: 1. Pissurlem's mineral loot for Rs. 20 lakh! http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/04/pissurlems-mineral-loot-for-rs-20-lakh.html 2. Fresh Police cases filed against Colamb village defenders http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/04/fresh-police-cases-filed-against-colamb.html 3. Objection to the proposed Cavrem Devapan Dongor mine http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/04/objection-to-proposed-devapan-dongor.html 4. Cavrem villagers opposes proposed Devapan Dongor Mine http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/04/cavrem-villagers-opposes-proposed.html Warmly, Seby _ Technology : Catch up on updates on the latest Gadgets, Reviews, Gaming and Tips to use technology etc. http://computing.in.msn.com/
[Goanet] Cavrem villagers opposes mine
The villagers of Cavrem-Quepem strongly opposed for the expansion and renewal of lease of Devappan Dongor iron and manganese ore mine of Shri Shaik Salim at a public hearing held in Mallikarjun Temple at Cavrem on Monday April 28 2008 which was presided over by the South Goa Collector Shri G.P.Naik and Goa pollution Control board Assistant Environment Engineer Sanjay Vaze. All the villagers gathered opposing the renewal and expansion of the mine stated that if the mine is started then their entire village will be destroy as the proposed mine is situated on the top of the hill and their houses are lying on the foot of the hill which are situated barely at a distance of 300 mts. They further stated that their natural water resources which originated from the Devapan Dongor will be affected and their agriculture will be destroy due to siltation. One John Fernandes of Deao opposing and criticing the Rapid Environmental impact assessment report stated that the report give false, distorted and suppress vital and important information. He stated that the report which states that there are no ST population in the buffore zone stated that 80% of the population in the buffer zone are from ST Community. He further brought to the notice of the presiding officer that there are a protected site like the Rivona pandova Caves and the Ponsamol site which comes within the buffer zone. There are also protected species like peacock, leopards, bison, spoted deer which information has been suppressed from the report. He further stated the total mining area is private land is false as vast government land mostly thick forest land of survey No.19 which is a home for different animals and birds including the protected species comes under the lease area. So also the government primary school which is in survey No.11/2. He further brought to the notice that there are human settlement within the core zone which information has been suppressed from the REIA report. Narayan K. Gaonkar opposing the mine stated the manual operation of the mine which was done about 20 years has done extensive damage to their agriculture land which are yet to be compensated by the mining company and if mechanize mining is done there will no peace of land to cultivate. Deep Laximon Velip stated that mining will affect more to the forest animals like bison who after the destruction of forest due to mining will enter into cultivation in serch of food and destroy it. Rama Velip from neighboring Colamb village stated that due to dust pollution the villagers will suffer many dieses, the erosion will affect the Kushawati river and mountain being the tanks of fresh water it will affect the fresh water table. Others who opposed the mine includes Shri Ratnaker Velip, Turo B. Velip, Mahadev Velip, Mrs. Abolem Velip, Mrs. Parvati Velip, Mrs. Sitabai Velip, Mrs. Radha Krishna Velip, Mrs. Geetawati Velip, Mr. Ankush Velip, Bubuso Velip, Umakant Velip , Surendra Velip. John Fernandes -- Posted By MAND to MAND - an adivasi-rights resource centre at 4/29/2008 10:12:00 AM _ Video: Get a glimpse of the latest in Cricket, Bollywood, News and Fashion. Only on MSN videos. http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] 56 Colamb villagers served 4 kg each heavy Court notices
56 Colamb villagers were served thick notices weighing 4 kilos each restraining them from entering mining lease land of Hiralal Khodidas. Villagers have been involved in blocking of transportation of the iron ore as the operation of this mine is causing various livelihood problems such as threat to the agriculture, drying up of water sources and siltation of waterways, besides colossal threat to Kushavati river. Mining lease operated by Fomentos however has been using entire state machinery such deputy collector Quepem, Police, South Goa collector Forest departments as well as department of mines and geology to bulldoze villagers opposition. Civil Judge of senior division at Quepem Sayonara Telles Laad passed the following order in favour of the mining company in this case that is known as Uday H. Gosalia & anr V/s Rama Ladu Velip and anrs on 25th April 2008: "Perused records filed alongwith the present application for temporary injuction and main suit. Heard Ld. Adv. Shri H. Bhangui who minutely took me to the documents to show that the plaintiffs are carrying on with their business after complying with all the statutory provisions required for the purpose of mining. On perusal of the documents produced, I am satisfied that if ex-parte relief is not granted in the aforesaid circumstances which has led to filing the present application and suit, then the plaintiffs who have shown a primafacie case shall be put to hardships. Therefore, the application in terms of prayer (a) and (b) is granted till further orders. Plaintiffs to comply with Order 39 R 3 CPC. Issue notice to defts r/0 2/5/2008 at 10.00 am." Mining company's first prayer (a) that has been granted is as follows: "or a Judgement and Decree of Permanent Injunction restraining the Defendant, their agents, servants, family members, friends, relatives etc or any other person or persons acting or purporting to act on behalf of the Defendants from interfering with the smooth operation of the said mine by plaintiff No. 1 and his family and from creating any problem with the free ingress or egress of the Plaintiffs vehicle and from in any manner interfering with the transportation of ore by Plaintiff No. 2 or interfering with Plaintiff's staff, transport operators and/or other employees and/or servants of the Plaintiffs." Mining company's second prayer (b) that has been granted is as follows: "ending the herein and final disposal of the suit, for temporary injunction restraining the Defendants, their agents, servants, family member, friends, relatives etc. or any other person or persons acting or purporting to act on behalf of the Defendants from interfering with the smooth operation of the said mine by plaintiff No. 1 and his family and from creating any problem with the free ingress or egress of the Plaintiff's vehicle and from in any manner interfering with the transportation activities of the transportation activities of the transportation of ore by Plaintiff No. 2 or interfering with Plaintiff's staff, transport operators and/or other employees and/or servants of the Plaintiffs." So here is the case wherein the mining company has used judiciary to further its interest. Mining company has been granted both the temporary as well as permanent injunction restraining villagers even before the first hearing fixed for May 02 2008. This order reflects open collusion of Judiciary and the mining company. We can only imagine the fate of Goa if mining companies begin using judiciary in this fashion. The trend is indeed disturbing. Sebastian Rodrigues -- Posted By MAND to MAND - an adivasi-rights resource centre at 4/29/2008 07:51:00 PM _ Video: Get a glimpse of the latest in Cricket, Bollywood, News and Fashion. Only on MSN videos. http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Mining Trucks Blocked at Colamb, Sanguem
It was eventful day today in Colamb village of Sanguem Taluka in Goa. Villagers came out to demand closure of the Fomento mine by putting back the waste as well as the piled up ore into the existing pit. In the morning at around 10 am mining trucks carrying Iron Ore were stopped on the road. Public transport however was not affected as the villagers made it a point not to disrupt the same. However as the tension built up further mining some truck drivers blocked public transport at around 2.00 pm. People protesting organised rally carrying banners and placards of protest and marched on the road with slogan shouting. People were forced to block the trucks as they were prevented from entering Fomento mine due to Court Injunction. This case came up for hearing today in Quepem Sessions Court refused to vacate Injuction order and legal barrier against the villagers continues to be in existence. Police made only a negligible presence in Colamb today with one jeep round at around 11.30 am even though around 400 mining trucks qued up on the road till around 5.00 pm. In the afternoon events took a violent turn when one truck driver kicked Socorina Fernades resulting in Chest and hand injuries. She is being treated in Margao when the last reports came in. It is not yet known if she has filed the Police complaint so far. After Socorina attack at around 3.00 pm then it was the turn of Motesh Antao at 4.30 pm to bear some more pain and offer sacrifice for his village: he was attacked and kicked on his thighs by the same truck driver that kicked Socorina. This further aggravated the which was coolly handled by the villagers. Motesh Antao was attacked by around 12 people who came in a jeep from Sanvordem to attack the villagers. Colamb villagers however demonstrated extraordinary sense of tolerance and patience restraining from violent retaliation even after so many provocations during the day. While all this is going on the Goa Government on the other hand is busy in it's continues support to a mega disaster called 'Mining'. One only wonders as to how long and how far it will continue to do so. Perhaps it will never cease its support till citizens rise up and throw it in the dustbin of history once and for all. Sebastin Rodrigues with inputs from Constancio Rodrigues, Mercilina Sen, Vinaya D'Souza and Smitha Olivera -- Posted By MAND to MAND - an adivasi-rights resource centre at 5/02/2008 07:18:00 PM _ Timely update on all current affairs, sports, events and all thats in News here on MSN videos. http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Mining Mafia invades Colamb
Read here to see pictures: http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/05/mining-mafia-invades-colamb.html Warmly, Seby _ No Harvard, No Oxford. We are here. Find out !! http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=500
[Goanet] New uploads on MAND blog
Hello! Here are few new uploads on MAND blog: 1. WEEK LONG ROAD BLOCK OF MINING TRUCKS IN COLAMBA http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/05/week-long-road-block-of-mining-trucks.html 2. Advalpal villagers protest against mining companies http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/05/advalpal-villagers-protest-against.html 3. FOREST RIGHTS SEMINAR HELD IN COLAMBA http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/05/forest-rights-seminar-held-in-colamba.html 4. GAKUVED supports Advapal villagers struggle against mining http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/05/gakuved-supports-advapal-villagers.html Warmly, Seby _ No Harvard, No Oxford. We are here. Find out !! http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=500
[Goanet] Today's two new uploads on MAND blog
Hello! Here are new uploads on MAND blog: 1. Mining Leads South Goa for Water crisis http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/05/mining-leads-south-goa-for-water-crisis.html 2. Syngenta expansion plant opposed at Corlim Gram Sabha. http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/2008/05/syngenta-expansion-plant-opposed-at.html Warmly, Seby _ Timely update on all current affairs, sports, events and all thats in News here on MSN videos. http://video.msn.com/?mkt=en-in
[Goanet] Advalpal villagers rise in revolt: paralyses mining operations
--- http://www.GOANET.org --- 5th Annual Konkan Fruit Fest Promenade, D B Bandodkar Road, Panaji, Goa 16-18, May 2008 http://lists.goanet.org/pipermail/goanet-goanet.org/2008-May/073789.html --- Around 600 villagers of Advalpal in Goa’s Bicholim taluka marched on the 19th May 2008, on Advalpal mines paralyzing the mining operations. According to the reports received at 11.15 am, people suffering from mining invasion targeted Salgaonkars, Sesa Goa and Litho Ferro mines. Details are yet to come in. In the past few weeks, momentum has been building up against opencast mining companies – many of them operated by mafia groups like Trimurthy. Fomentos - that is well known for Goa’s environmental destruction and snatching away people's livelihoods and drying up natural water sources - too is also contributing its bit to wipe off Advalpal village in Bicholim from Goa’s map. There is an ongoing agitation against Fomentos in Sanguem taluka’s Colamb village. Its mines have been forced to shut down by People’s power since January 2008. Today’s march on mines included Members of Panchayats as well as Local MLA Mr. Patnekar. According to Ramesh Gauns most of these mines are illegally operating purely by muscle power. Department of Mines and Geology is involved in protecting these illegal mines even though none of them posses approved mining plans. It is indeed tragedy of Goa that this government department has stooped down so low to be mere slave agency of the miners. It is high time that the department gets its acts together and rises up to defend people and not mining companies. According to reports pouring in at 1.00 pm Police are preparing to arrest Advalpal villagers on march. Sebastian Rodrigues www.mandgoa.blogspot.com _ No Harvard, No Oxford. We are here. Find out !! http://ss1.richmedia.in/recurl.asp?pid=500
