Panaji, April 9:
Goa Forward Party President and Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai has written to Governor Shri Ashok Gajapathi Raju urging the immediate reconvening of the Goa Legislative Assembly to restore democratic functioning and take up urgent legislative matters, including the proposed “Goa Protection of Agricultural Lands Act, 2026.”

In his letter, Sardesai expressed “deep concern” over recent developments in the state, particularly the controversial sequence surrounding the proposed Ponda by-election, which was cancelled by the Bombay High Court just a day before polling. He pointed out that the by-election itself was notified despite provisions under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which do not require a bypoll if less than one year of the Assembly term remains.

Questions Raised on Governance and Institutional Functioning

Sardesai stated that the episode has raised serious legal and constitutional concerns, while also eroding public confidence in democratic institutions. He alleged that the situation reflects not just an administrative lapse but a “well-planned sequence of events,” citing the preponement and merging of the Assembly session with the Budget Session, its overlap with the Model Code of Conduct, and the abrupt curtailment of proceedings.

He also criticised the Election Commission of India for what he termed as “conspicuous silence” in the matter, adding that the handling of the situation has further fuelled perceptions of inconsistency and lack of transparency.

Concerns Over Weakening Legislative Accountability

Highlighting broader concerns, Sardesai pointed to declining Assembly sittings, defections altering electoral mandates, and procedural changes limiting Opposition participation. He warned that these trends are weakening legislative accountability and damaging public trust in governance.

Calls for Urgent Discussion on Public Issues

The GFP leader stressed that several pressing issues require immediate discussion on the floor of the House, including rising road fatalities and the State’s plan to raise approximately ₹1000 crore in loans between April and June 2026 without adequate legislative scrutiny.

Push for Agricultural Lands Protection Bill

Sardesai also urged priority consideration of his Private Member’s Bill titled “The Goa Protection of Agricultural Lands Act, 2026,” submitted on February 20, 2026 and drafted by former Chief Justice Justice Ferdino Rebello. He emphasised that the proposed law is crucial to safeguard Goa’s agricultural lands and the future of its villages.

Appeal to Restore Democratic Process

Calling the current situation a “critical juncture,” Sardesai urged the Governor to take necessary steps to reconvene the Assembly and restore its role as the primary forum for accountability and governance.

“It is not merely a procedural issue, but a matter of preserving democratic spirit and institutional integrity in Goa,” he stated.