Karapur, July 10 : The struggle against the House of Abhinandan Lodha project in Karapur completes 100 days on Monday, July 13. To mark this occasion, the residents of Karapur have raised the slogan “Chalo Delhi” and decided to hold a one-day protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. In support of this movement, Enough is Enough, Goa has appealed to Goans to gather at Azad Maidan in Panaji at 5 p.m. the same day.

At a press conference held on Friday, Enough is Enough, Goa spokespersons Swapnesh Sherlekar, Govind Shirodkar, and Devidas Amonkar shared these details. The project, spread over 4.5 lakh sq. m., is a five-star development for which government rules and laws have allegedly been bent to grant permissions. Locals fear the project poses a threat to Karapur village and have continued their agitation. Notably, neither the Chief Minister nor any ruling party leader has visited the protest site. Even two opposition MLAs have not shown up. Company representatives did meet the protestors, but the villagers have declared they will not withdraw until the project is cancelled.

Drawing the Attention of the Central Government

The Delhi protest aims to draw the attention of the central government to this issue. The project is being built on land sold by Town Planning Minister Vishwajit Rane, and allegations of misuse of authority extend from land ownership to project permissions. A petition has already been filed in court. Meanwhile, the company has filed a defamation case in a Mumbai court against activist Swapnesh Sherlekar. Retired Justice Ferdino Rebello, convenor of Enough is Enough, Goa, has also pointed out several legal flaws in the project. Despite this, the government continues to back the project, prompting Karapur residents to adopt a more aggressive stance.

We Are With You!

Various social movements are underway to protect Goa’s environment and future. Since the Karapur struggle is directly linked to Goa’s very existence, it is essential for all Goans to unite in support. To extend moral backing to the Karapur residents protesting in Delhi, Goans are urged to gather at Azad Maidan in Panaji on July 13 at 5 p.m. Every Goan is called upon to participate in this movement and contribute to safeguarding Goa.