Union Minister Khattar’s Nuclear Power Proposal in Goa Sparks Political Outrage

Panaji, Goa – May 13: Union Minister for Power Manohar Lal Khattar chaired a high-level review meeting in Goa on Monday to assess the state’s power sector performance and future energy strategies. The minister lauded Goa for its impressive achievements in ensuring uninterrupted 24×7 electricity supply and proactive urban development planning.

“Goa is ahead of many other states when it comes to reliable power supply and preparing for future energy needs,” said Khattar. He emphasized the importance of long-term infrastructure development to support the state’s rapid urban growth and ensure sustainable energy distribution.

A significant highlight of the meeting was the discussion on the potential establishment of a nuclear power plant in Goa. “We have discussed the idea of establishing a nuclear power plant in Goa if feasibility permits. The Centre has already encouraged all states to explore nuclear-based power generation as part of a cleaner and more reliable energy strategy,” the minister stated.

Khattar commended the Goa government’s initiatives in maintaining round-the-clock electricity services and stressed that energy planning must align with the state’s developmental aspirations. He assured that the Union government will extend full support in enhancing Goa’s power infrastructure and exploring sustainable energy solutions.

The review meeting comes at a time when the Centre is pushing for cleaner, more resilient energy alternatives nationwide. Goa’s consistent power supply and focus on infrastructure have positioned it as a model for other states.

Congress and AAP Slam Nuclear Proposal

Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) President Amit Patkar strongly condemned the move through a social media post.
“Goa is not a laboratory for @BJP4India’s dangerous experiments,” Patkar wrote. “I strongly condemn Shri @mlkhattar’s absurd proposal of setting up a nuclear power plant in our peaceful, eco-sensitive state of Goa. The @BJP4Goa has already destroyed Goa’s hills, forests, agriculture & rivers — now they want to risk lives with a nuclear hazard? We will resist this anti-Goa agenda with full force. Our land, livelihoods & environment are non-negotiable.”

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Goa President Amit Palekar also voiced strong opposition on social media, questioning the necessity of a nuclear plant in Goa when the Kaiga facility in nearby Karwar already exists.
“Why do we need another nuclear power plant when Kaiga in Karwar is on the borders of Goa? @BJP4Goa and @BJP4India is all out to destroy our tiny Goa. @AAPGoa will fight tooth and nail if any such misadventure is attempted,” Palekar tweeted.

He further alleged that large swathes of Goan land have already been handed over to private institutions linked to BJP interests. “Now whatever is left of Goa is sought to be destroyed with such projects. Who has interest in this!!” he asked.

The Road Ahead

As the debate intensifies, Khattar has assured continued central support for Goa’s power infrastructure development and energy diversification efforts. However, with mounting opposition from regional parties, any move toward nuclear energy in Goa is likely to face significant resistance both politically and from civil society.