Goa observed Legislators' Day on Thursday with traditional pomp which was highlighted by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant's remarks praising the "visionary leaders" who laid the roots of our democratic framework. However, such celebrations pose a serious question: are we merely observing the day as a token gesture, or are our current legislators genuinely doing justice to their roles? The distinction is crucial, for it determines the state of our democracy and the voice of its representatives.
This year’s commemorative tone resonated with gratitude towards those who paved the way for Goa’s legislative assembly in 1964, but it also laid bare an uncomfortable reality. Are today’s legislators mere shadowy figures compared to the stalwarts of yore? The very essence of a legislator’s role is to question, scrutinize, and voice the concerns of the people or constituency they represent. Yet, recent events suggest the role of legislators is being marginalised. The increasing tendency to sidestep significant debates and engage in personal score-settling cuts out a grim picture. The government's insistence on a two-day Assembly session despite an outcry by the Opposition MLAs, reeks of an alarming trend — a reluctance to engage in thorough discussions about pressing issues.
Opposition leader Yuri Alemao and Goa Forward Party Vijai Sardesai’s vehement criticism of the reduced session highlights a growing disenchantment. The government’s ability to readily dismiss calls for longer, more meaningful sessions raises concerns about the vibrancy of our democratic framework. Legislators ought to be respected as representatives of the people, no matter which party they belong.
Secondly, the urgency behind the Mhadei issue, which the Chief Minister has promised to address diligently, begs scrutiny. The formation of the House Committee to tackle the critical issue reflects lethargy to a point where members have termed it an "eyewash". A two-year span between meetings raises questions about the legislative commitment to urgent environmental concerns that affect Goa’s very fabric. Further, the ongoing challenges stemming from sound pollution — a palpable irritant in daily life across coastal Goa — remain largely unaddressed. It is tragic that the issues affecting the common man do not elicit an adequate response and that in several cases legislators’ interests appear to eclipse those of their constituents.
The current landscape prompts introspection among those elected to serve. We must question whether opportunism has crept into the assembly, leading legislators to prioritize personal ambitions and political expediency over the interests of Goa and their fundamental duty as legislators. The contrast between the past dedication of our legislators and the current machinations reveals a concerning apathy. If the commemoration of Goa Legislators' Day becomes a hollow observance, we risk normalizing disengagement and diluting the true essence of representative democracy.
The time for tokenism must cease immediately. This day ought to serve as a moment of reflection — a reminder for elected representatives to evaluate both their accomplishments and their shortcomings. A true tribute to our democratic foundations demands more than mere acknowledgement of the past; it necessitates action, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to the future of Goa. Legislators must awaken from complacency and reassert their vital role in fostering a responsive, robust democracy that truly serves its people. Only then can we honour the legacy of those who came before us.
