Three Goa MLAs seek opinion poll on coconut being classified as palm

PANAJI: Opposing the Goa government's decision to classify coconut as a palm, three independent legislators have sought an opinion poll on the issue.

"The BJP-led government based on their majority on the floor of the House passed the legislation. They have launched environmental terrorism in the state," alleged Vijai Sardesai, an independent MLA.

Speaking to the media along with Rohan Khaunte and Naresh Sawal, the two other independent MLAs, Sardesai said that the government's decision would be protested across the state and it would be an issue in forthcoming Budget Session of the Assembly.

"We (all the 3 MLAs) challenge the state government to hold an opinion poll on its decision of classifying coconut as a tree and also allow eco-tourism in eco-sensitive areas. Let people give their opinion," Sardesai, who represents Fatorda Assembly Constituency said.

During the recently concluded Winter Session of the Assembly, the state government led by Laxmikant Parsekar had amended the Goa, Daman and Diu Tree Protection Act, 1983 classifying coconut as palm from its ea rlier scheduling as tree.