Former minister and convenor of the Mhadei Bachao Abhiyan, Nirmala Sawant, has raised concerns over the Goa government’s approach to the ongoing Mhadei river dispute. She criticized the government’s inability to secure an exclusive Supreme Court hearing for the case, leading to repeated delays. Sawant also pointed out that despite spending ₹3.2 crore on legal fees over the last five years, there has been little progress in protecting Goa’s interests.

The Mhadei river dispute, a long-standing conflict between Goa and Karnataka, revolves around the diversion of water from the Mhadei basin. With Supreme Court hearings continuously postponed, Sawant emphasized the urgency of proactive legal efforts to safeguard Goa’s water resources.

In a recent discussion, she urged the government to take immediate action and formally request a dedicated Supreme Court hearing for the Mhadei case. She warned that continued inaction not only threatens Goa’s water security but also raises doubts about the government’s commitment to resolving the issue.