Margao: In a deeply unsettling move, a recent advertisement by a prominent builder invited people across the country to “conquer” Goa. The brazen language used in the ad has not only sparked outrage among Goans but has also raised pressing questions about the government’s ongoing approach to the state’s unique identity and culture. The term “conquer” is far from appropriate when referring to Goa, a land with a rich history of resistance and resilience. For many, the ad is more than just offensive; it represents a troubling trend where Goa is increasingly being seen as a commodity to be seized rather than a community to be respected.
At the heart of the outrage is the belief that this ad is not an isolated incident but a consequence of the BJP-led Goa government’s continuous efforts to reshape the state to accommodate the needs and desires of outsiders. Locals feel their concerns are being sidelined in favor of policies that prioritize the interests of non-Goans, eroding the essence of Goan identity, or Goemkarponn.
The government’s track record over the last few years has reinforced the belief that Goans are being treated as second-class citizens in their own state. Whether it’s the uncontrolled rise in real estate prices driven by buyers from other parts of India or the growing influence of non-Goan businesses, locals are feeling increasingly alienated. The messaging—both explicit and implicit—suggests that Goa is up for grabs, further exacerbating the frustration.
Goan Leaders Respond
MLA of Fatorda and Goa Forward Party chief Vijai Sardesai was quick to condemn the ad, stating, “The audacity to use the word ‘conquer’ in reference to Goa is a direct result of the government’s policies, which have turned the state into a land for outsiders to exploit. Goa is not a commodity for sale. Goans are not weak, and we will not tolerate such disrespect to our land and people.”
Sardesai has long been a vocal critic of the government’s approach to development, arguing that policies are being shaped to serve the interests of non-Goans at the expense of locals. “This builder’s advertisement is just the latest example of how the government, through its words and deeds, gives the impression that Goa can be taken over. It’s time for the BJP to wake up and realize that Goans will not be pushed aside in their own state,” he added.
Sardesai’s remarks reflect a growing sentiment among Goans who feel increasingly alienated and marginalized. The BJP must urgently reassess its policies and ensure that its actions do not perpetuate the damaging narrative that Goa is a weak or conquerable state. This is not just about political strategy; it’s about protecting the dignity of Goans and preserving the cultural heritage that makes Goa unique.
Even as the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) extends an invite to people from Maharashtra and Karnataka for the Ayushman Bharat scheme, which in its essence aligns with the spirit of Goan hospitality and inclusivity, it must not lose sight of its primary responsibility: upholding the interests of Goans. While inclusive policies that benefit all are welcome, they should not come at the cost of Goans feeling marginalized or ignored in their own homeland.
The Chief Minister must demonstrate strong leadership and ensure that Goan voices are not just heard but actively prioritized in government decisions. The time has come for the government to draw a clear line—Goa is not for conquest, it is a thriving community with its own rich history, culture, and people whose rights and interests must be protected above all.
In a state where Goemkarponn is not just a concept but a way of life, it is imperative for the government to take decisive steps to preserve what makes Goa special. The perception that Goa is a “conquerable” land is damaging and must be countered with policies that strengthen Goan identity, empower locals, and protect the state’s future for generations to come.