Safeguarding Goa's Identity: Crackdown on Surname Misuse

Opposition members in Goa's legislative assembly raised concerns about misuse of traditional Goan surnames by outsiders to obtain government benefits and establish fake identities. In response, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant assured that measures, including recent legal amendments, are in place to prevent threats to Goa's cultural and demographic identity.

On Monday, Opposition MLAs in Goa highlighted concerns over the misuse of Goan surnames by non-natives aiming to benefit from government schemes or create false identities.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant responded to the assembly, asserting that steps were being taken to prevent individuals from abusing Goan surnames to deplete the state's distinct cultural identity.

Amendments to the Goa Change of Name and Surname Act now restrict name or surname changes to those with registered births in Goa and at least one Goan parent or grandparent, with penal provisions for violations.

(With inputs from agencies.)