Daijiworld Media Network – Porvorim

Porvorim, Aug 1: A heated exchange unfolded in the Goa Legislative Assembly on Thursday as Town and Country Planning (TCP) Minister Vishwajit Rane and Revolutionary Goans (RG) MLA Viresh Borkar locked horns over the alleged conversion of eco-sensitive land.

The clash took place during a discussion on cut motions against the TCP department, with Borkar launching a scathing attack, accusing Rane of facilitating illegal zone changes in his St Andre constituency. “Despite locals submitting objections, the minister is going ahead with land conversions. If such illegalities continue, Goa won’t survive. This government is full of lies, and the minister is a liar,” Borkar declared in the House, claiming he had documents to support his allegations.

The sharp accusations did not sit well with Minister Rane, who retaliated, saying, “I’ve been elected for years. Don’t yell at me, nothing’s going to happen. Uncouth... your party has fallen on the roadside. Make all the noise you want—I will not answer your questions.”

The brief but intense verbal duel brought attention to growing public concerns over rampant land conversions, especially in eco-sensitive zones, and highlighted the strained relationship between the TCP department and opposition MLAs.

The Speaker intervened to maintain decorum in the House, but the exchange reflects rising tensions within the Assembly over environmental safeguards and governance.