Goa MP accuses navy of bid to grab islands

Panaji, Sep 25 (IANS) A Congress MP from Goa Saturday accused the Indian Navy of attempting to grab land by seeking control of two islands under the garb of security.

In a press statement issued here, Rajya Sabha MP Shantaram Naik said that attempts by the naval authorities to seek control of two islands – St George and Bimbvel off the Goa coast – under the garb of security was ridiculous.

‘These islands are part and parcel of the state. Tourism activity, fishing activities and religious ceremonies will be trampled upon by the Indian Navy in the name of security, if these islands are allowed to be acquired or grabbed,’ Naik said.

The MP said he would take up the matter with Defence Minister A.K. Antony.

‘The chief secretary is already taking up the matter with the naval authorities. They are just trying to hog land. Goa should be opposing these attempts by the Indian Navy tooth and nail,’ Naik said.

He said that the assurances given by the naval authorities to protect the rights of the fishing and tourism-dependent communities should not be trusted.

There are three naval bases in Goa namely INS Hansa, INS Mandovi and INS Gomantak. Goa’s only airport at Dabolim is also controlled by the Indian Navy.