*Subject: Respect Our Right to Identity.* * *
Goans are increasingly opposing Land Sales to Non-Goans. I request Non-Goans to appreciate our basis. Yes, Goans can buy land in many Indian states/Western countries. But let's look at this in a bigger perspective; *this time globally*; I'll take the UK example, just to drive my point. I read an impressive column recently in the UAE media by a UK government minister. It was ref. the new UK immigration laws; highlight was while the UK has to be fair to other countries, at the same time it needed them, particularly India in the letter, to respect each nations right to protect its genuine interests. We appreciate why the UK/Western Countries i.e. MainGlobalisation/Democratic Free World drivers enact controls against non-locals. In UK, non-locals can buy land, but immigration controls ensure that the UK is not open to all. Those questioning my views from UAE, please note that although locals here are in minority there are safeguards e.g. No Expatriate Political Rights, No Citizenship, Restrictive Real Estate Buying laws etc. to ensure that the UAE remains with its people. Each community has limits to which non-locals can buy land/emigrate (with political rights). Goa has way crossed this limit; beyond which we have to put safeguards; the current rate will make Goans irrelevant & no community can accept the same for themselves. I'd argue today that Goans are more tolerant than most other communities. The REAL ISSUE is that GOA HAS NO CONTROLS ON REAL ESTATE PURCHASES/IMMIGRATION (mostly non local Indians). For those quoting the constitution (A) Goa had no influence to framing of the constitution i.e. India acquisition of Goa much later in 1961 (B) Some states have special provisions; Goa is also an exception; just because we * "failed"* to get safeguards in 1961, does not right the wrong (C) The Constitution is not cast in stone and for just basis, should be modified to protect the people; from which a democratic constitution should have been driven; not vice-versa!! I accept criticism that Goans are to be blamed significantly for the issue because of our actions/in-actions; but also issues of Land Sales to Non-Goans & Uncontrolled Migration are significant and need to be addressed urgently. Goans should support your right to your identity/interests, likewise please respect our right to the same. *Arwin Mesquita, Abu Dhabi.*