Panaji, 2 September 2026: South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes has urged Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant to intervene in the controversy over the traditional site used for installing “Murgaoncho Raja”, the popular Sarvajanik Ganapati at Sada, Mormugao, and initiate steps to acquire the land from the Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) for the festival.

In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister dated September 1, Fernandes said the land has been used for several years for erecting a pandal and hosting the revered Ganesh idol. However, according to him, the MPA has raised objections this year to the use of its land for the celebration.

Fernandes claimed that the MPA’s decision to approach the court had created anxiety among devotees and residents of Mormugao and elsewhere in Goa. He alleged that taking the dispute to court could ultimately allow the authorities to cite judicial proceedings as a reason for not intervening.

Pointing out that BJP governments are in power both in Goa and at the Centre, Fernandes said the Chief Minister should take up the matter with the Union Government and begin the process of acquiring the required portion of MPA land so that Murgaoncho Raja can be installed at the site permanently during Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

The South Goa MP also drew comparisons with land acquisition and infrastructure disputes elsewhere in Goa, including the Velsao railway issue, alleging that the government had previously proceeded with projects despite opposition from local landowners.

Fernandes recalled that during a meeting with the Chief Minister in October 2020, involving activists and members of the Betul Village Panchayat, he had cautioned against granting greater powers to the then Mormugao Port Trust. He said he had warned that such powers could effectively create a “state within a state”.

He further alleged that the Port Authority had reduced its Goan workforce and handed over berths to private players, while its latest stand had now affected a major religious celebration.

With Ganesh Chaturthi approaching, Fernandes requested the Chief Minister to immediately ask the MPA Chairman to permit the traditional site to be used this year for erecting the pandal and installing the Ganesh idol.

He also urged Sawant to approach the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to facilitate acquisition of the required parcel of land for future celebrations.

Fernandes said an announcement allowing Murgaoncho Raja to be celebrated at the same traditional location this year would be a welcome gesture towards the people of Mormugao and devotees across Goa.