Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Jul 26: A private member's resolution seeking the introduction of Romi Konkani as an optional medium in Goan schools was defeated in the Legislative Assembly on Friday with 24 members voting against it and only six in support.

The resolution was moved by Aldona MLA Carlos Alvares Ferreira, who cited the 450-year-old use of Romi script and its prevalence among a large section of Goans. He argued that the National Education Policy (NEP) encourages learning in one’s home language, strengthening his case for introducing Romi Konkani in schools.

However, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who also holds the education portfolio, rejected the proposal, pointing out that the Devanagari script for Konkani was officially adopted in 1962. He warned that reopening the script issue could create divisions in society.

Despite support from Opposition MLAs, including Yuri Alemao, Cruz Silva, Venzy Viegas, and Altone D'Costa, the resolution was voted down. Ferreira refused to withdraw it even after requests from the Chief Minister.

One MLA, Viresh Borkar, was unable to vote after being ejected from the House.