Goa govt trying to avoid debate on Covid, economy: Kamat

Panaji, July 22 Leader of Opposition Digambar Kamat, here on Wednesday, accused the BJP-led coalition government in Goa of trying to avoid debate on key issues, like the Covid-19 pandemic, revival of economy and environment issues related to destruction of over 150 hectares of forest for development projects, during the forthcoming one-day session of the Assembly.

Speaking to reporters following a business advisory committee meeting, convened at the Assembly complex, Kamat also accused the government of trying to hurriedly pass the budget during the July 27 session.

"It's important that the one-day session give utmost priority to the Covid pandemic, financial condition of the state, revival of economy, environmental issues, like proposed projects causing damage to the Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and the Mollem National Park, double tracking of rail passing through villages in coastal areas," Kamat said.

Kamat said he had registered his dissent in writing before the business advisory committee over the government decision to pass the budget during the one-day session.

The monsoon session of the Assembly was curtailed after an all-party meeting earlier this month in wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and was reduced to one day.

"The other issues and business, such as passing of bills, must be undertaken in the next session with a longer duration to enable all members to give their views in the interest of the state," the Leader of Opposition said.

Goa has witnessed sustained spike in active Covid-19 cases, with the latest tally crossing 1,500.

( With inputs from IANS )