Margao: In a show of unity that transcended party affiliations, members of the Scheduled Tribe community convened in Sanguem on Sunday to reaffirm their commitment to securing reservation of assembly constituencies ahead of the 2027 legislative assembly elections in Goa.
United Front for Political Reservation
The gathering, which drew key functionaries and workers from various political parties across the Sanguem constituency, was held to demonstrate a collective resolve to press for political reservation for Scheduled Tribes before the next polls. “We want reservation of seats for STs in the assembly in the 2027 polls at any cost. We will not rest until our demand is met,” declared a speaker at the meeting, underscoring the community's determination.
Legal Framework and Pending Notification
The demand centers on the implementation of the Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes in Assembly Constituencies of the State of Goa Act, 2025. This act has already received presidential assent and has been published in the official gazette. However, a separate notification from the central government is still required to bring the law into force. It is this pending step that the ST community is urging the government to expedite.
Earlier Delegation to BJP Leadership
Earlier this month, a delegation comprising tribal welfare minister Ramesh Tawadkar, MLAs Govind Gaude, Ganesh Gaonkar, and Anton Vaz, along with former minister Prakash Velip, met state BJP president Damodar Naik in Margao. The delegation urged Naik to pursue the matter with the central government. Naik assured the delegation of the party’s unequivocal support for their demand.
Determination and Warning
At Sunday’s gathering, participants made it clear they would not be drawn into debates with those opposing the proposed reservation, fearing such discussions could delay the process. “However, if the reservation doesn’t happen by the 2027 polls, we must get ready to fight for it,” a speaker warned, indicating a potential escalation in their campaign.
Government Assurance
Chief minister Pramod Sawant has previously reiterated his commitment to securing political reservation for STs before 2027. Tribal welfare minister Tawadkar has expressed confidence that the central notification would come through well ahead of the polls, providing reassurance to the community.
