Panaji, Jun 11 (TOI): Calling Goans, who inadvertently registered their births in Portugal, as "our people", chief minister Laxmikant Parsekar said that he would write to the home ministry to protect their interests.

Parsekar went on to say he would make an attempt to protect the interests of those who surrendered their citizenship.

"These are our people. I will ensure their rights are protected," Parsekar said, while speaking on the sidelines of a two- day conference on smart cities at a resort in the state.

Trying to empathize with those who had already surrendered their citizenship, CM Parsekar said, "I will make an attempt to help those who have already given up Indian nationality and taken up Portuguese citizenship."

Union minister of state for home affairs Kiren Rijiju, during a recent visit to Goa, said that a central government authority would be setup in Goa to decide the contentious issue of dual citizenship and to give the debate finality. Since then, a large debate has ensued to discuss the fate of several Goans who have voluntarily registered their births in Portugal, but who have yet to complete the procedure to acquire Portuguese citizenship. Parsekar also told reporters that preparations for the Brics conference in Goa were on. "We will have meetings to see how right from the airport to the conference venue, we can improve infrastructure which will remain for the state, even after the event."

Speaking earlier to the stakeholders from over 20 states for the smart city conference, Parsekar said, "Success does not come by accident. Success is achieved only when all stakeholders put in proper, planned efforts and I am sure your working during this two-day conference will move in that direction."
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