Panaji, Goa | July 17, 2025 In a significant move aimed at protecting the age-old Comunidade land system of Goa, the Save Comunidades Save Goa campaign submitted a detailed memorandum to the Hon’ble Governor of Goa at Raj Bhavan today. The submission was marked by the presence of prominent public representatives and community leaders, including MLA Venzy Viegas, MLA Cruz Silva, Gaunkars, and Shareholders representing multiple Comunidades across the state.
The memorandum highlighted pressing concerns regarding recent government policies perceived as threats to the traditional Comunidade system, particularly attempts to regularize unauthorized structures on Comunidade land. Campaigners and Gaunkars reiterated that such decisions undermine the legal, cultural, and economic foundation of the Comunidades—Goa’s unique village land-holding institution that predates colonial rule.
Addressing the media outside Raj Bhavan, MLA Venzy Viegas emphasized the importance of respecting Goan heritage and constitutional safeguards:
“We stand with the people in preserving their ancestral rights. Any move that bypasses the consent of Gaunkars or disturbs the Comunidade framework is unacceptable.”
MLA Cruz Silva added:
“The Tags: #SaveComunidades #SaveGoa #GoaGovernor #RajBhavan #VenzyViegas #CruzSilva #Gaunkars #ComunidadeRights #GoaNews
The delegation urged the Governor to intervene and ensure that any policy affecting Comunidade lands is subjected to thorough public consultation, legal scrutiny, and respect for community ownership rights.
The Save Comunidades Save Goa movement has been gaining momentum across the state, uniting Gaunkars, youth, and civil society in a common cause to protect Goa’s land and heritage from exploitative practices. Today’s memorandum marks a pivotal step in that ongoing struggle.