Local Truckers Sound Alarm Over Business Takeover
A major dispute is brewing in North Goa as the Pernem-Bardez Truck Owners Association, representing a significant force of over 600 local truck owners, has raised a strong objection against the escalating presence of non-Goan migrant truckers in the region. The association alleges that these outside operators are systematically taking over their traditional business, leading to severe economic strain for native entrepreneurs.
Political Intervention and Key Demands
In a bid to find a resolution, the association's leadership, including its president Milind Shetye, recently held crucial meetings with local legislators. They met Pernem MLA Praveen Arlekar and Mandrem MLA Jit Arolkar to press for their demands. The primary appeals made during these discussions were for the government to impose immediate restrictions on non-Goan truck operators and to abolish the contentious agreement vehicle registration system with the Regional Transport Office (RTO), which they argue works against the interests of the local population.
Expressing the community's frustration, Association President Milind Shetye stated, "Migrants have taken advantage of democracy and are eating into our rightful business. We will take our fight to a logical conclusion." In response, MLA Jit Arolkar assured the aggrieved owners, "I will take up the matter with the chief minister and resolve the issue."
Escalating Tensions and Police Complaint
The situation took a more confrontational turn recently when the association was forced to file a formal police complaint. The complaint targets a non-Goan individual who allegedly created a nuisance and even assaulted association members outside their office in Dhargalim. The altercation reportedly erupted after the individual was denied access to the association's official logo, which is said to be reserved exclusively for Niz Goenkar, or native Goan truck owners.
The association has issued a clear warning: if the state government fails to address their grievances promptly, they will be compelled to launch a massive protest. This development highlights the growing economic tensions and the complex challenges surrounding migrant labor and local business interests in the state.
