Margao, June 11: Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai has written to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant urging the Government to return acquired paddy field land adjoining the Wholesale Fish Market at Fatorda to the agricultural tenants and farmers who have been cultivating the land for decades.In a letter dated June 11, Sardesai referred to recent statements made by Goa BJP President Damodar Naik suggesting that he should take the initiative for the return of the land. Sardesai pointed out that the acquisition had taken place nearly two decades ago during the tenure of Damodar Naik as the MLA of Fatorda and Digambar Kamat as the Urban Development Minister.The Fatorda MLA stated that he has consistently raised the issue on behalf of farmers and agricultural tenants who continue to cultivate the fields despite the acquisition. He noted that the land, which was acquired for the construction of a truck terminus, has never been utilized for the intended purpose and continues to remain under agricultural use.Sardesai emphasized that the paddy fields contribute significantly to Goa’s agricultural heritage, food security, groundwater recharge, and ecological balance. He argued that continued government possession of the land without using it for the intended public purpose serves neither development objectives nor the interests of the farming community.Referring to the recent stand taken by Damodar Naik, Sardesai said the Government now has an opportunity to address the long-pending grievance of the affected cultivators.He urged the Government to initiate the necessary legal and administrative measures to restore the acquired land to the agricultural tenants and farmers who have been cultivating it for decades. Sardesai suggested that a detailed examination be conducted to identify eligible tenants and formulate an appropriate mechanism for restoration of their rights and continued agricultural use of the land.Expressing hope for swift action, Sardesai said the move would be in the interest of justice, protection of agricultural lands, and the welfare of Goa’s farming community.