Tribal farmers cry for market space, want CM to intervene

Agitated tribal farmers from hilly areas of Quepem taluka on Thursday marched to the residence of the Chief Minister Digambar Kamat to demand for a permanent space in the commercial capital to sell locally grown vegetable and fruits.

The farmers, however, returned home without meeting the Chief Minister since he was not available at his residence.

Led by Santosh Raikar, the farmers contended they were promised a space in the commercial capital to market locally growing vegetables and fruits, but in vain. The farmers said they are ready to conduct their business outside the SGPDA market complex for the time being till the government finds out a permanent place for them.

Raikar said the farmers are tribal people who have no place to sit and sell their products in the city. “These tribal people sit in the hot sun to eke out their living to enjoy their daily break and meet their family needs’, he added.

He claimed that the Margao Municipality is harassing the poor farmers in the city and request the authorities to provide these vendors alternate space outside the SGPDA market complex pending the finalization of a permanent venue.

The farmers rally came two days after the Margao Municipal Council asked the farmers not to occupy the footpaths after the Margao Traffic Cell pointed out that their presence could result in accidents on the road opposite the Central Bank of India.

Herald, September 25, 2009, Panaji