GMPF Demands Changes in Mining Laws, to Protest During PM’s Visit

Mining sector in the coastal state came to a stand still in March this year after the SC quashed 88 mining leases.

An iron plant at Navelim in Goa. Image used for representational purposes.

(Photo: iStock)

The Goa Mining People's Front, an umbrella organisation of people dependent on the state's mining sector, has decided to stage a protest during the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Goa next month, its chief Puti Goankar said.

The GMPF has been agitating for several months now demanding amendment in mining laws for the resumption of mining operations in Goa.

The mining sector in the coastal state came to a stand still in March this year after the Supreme Court quashed 88 mining leases and banned the extraction of iron ore.

PM Modi is expected to be in the state in the first week of January, 2019 to inaugurate the third bridge over Mandovi River.

“We are left with no other option. We have been demanding that the mining industry resume as soon as possible.But there is no solution in sight till date,” Gaonkar told reporters Thursday, 28 December.

He said that as part of the protest, GMPF members willshow black flags during the PM's visit.