Tristao de Braganza Cunha is popularly known as the “Father of Goan Nationalism”. He worked relentlessly for the liberation of Goa. He is well known for his two books: 400 years of Foreign Rule AND Denationalisation of Goans. Another stalwart who stood for modern values of democracy, secularism and free thinking was Luis de Menezes Braganza.
T B Cunha was totally committed in the struggle against anti-colonialism. He guided the liberation struggle and inspired thousands to come together against the colonial powers.
The relevance of men like T B Cunha and Luis de Menezes Braganza is felt more today due to threats to liberties and freedom of expression.
There is intolerance to dissent and the government both at the Centre and the State levels is turning dictatorial. Free thinkers are trolled and any attack on the ruling powers is projected as anti-national. It is during such times that we need to draw strength, inspiration and motivation from men like T B Cunha.
Cunha stood for democracy and people’s participation in governance. Today, we observe that in Goa, a few individuals are calling the shots.
*People who oppose bull dozing by government are denigrated as anti-development.
*Even after a High Court order, government has audacity to move the Supreme Court to reverse the Tiger Reserve Order.
*Land laws are amended to benefit land investors and real estate lobby
*TCP Act and rules are changed to suit vested interests. There is no consultation with people
*Goa is moving towards becoming less and less liberal. This is a dangerous trend.
As I pay respects to the Father of Goan Nationalism, I hope his life and works will give us the courage to fight the regressive, oppressive, communal, and dictatorial forces that are raising their heads in Goan political and social life
Yuri Alemao
Leader of Opposition