MARGAO, July 5 -- In a massive show of unity, hundreds of residents from different communities, social organisations and environmental groups gathered at Dando Ground in Benaulim on Saturday to oppose Section 39A. The gathering passed a unanimous resolution demanding that the provision be scrapped and all notifications proposing the conversion of paddy fields into Non-Development Areas (NDAs) be withdrawn.

The protestors pledged to intensify the campaign across Goa, stating that the movement was aimed at protecting the State's agricultural land, ecology and traditional village identity.

The public meeting witnessed participation from villagers, activists, environmentalists and local leaders, all of whom expressed concern over Section 39...