Russians growing influence in Morjim

Morjim, once a peaceful village in Pernem taluka, has lost all its peace and
tranquillity now. Thanks to no action from the powers that be. Morjim has become a
safe haven for the Russians who indulge in sex business and large-scale drug
trafficking. With these Russians buying land and houses on a large scale in Morjim,
locals are at the receiving end. There are two options left before them: either leave
for some safer village or be cautious with the Russians in Morjim.
In a total population of around 12,000, the Russians staying here could number
anywhere between 500 to 1000 and that being in the peak tourist season. These Russians
staying here are often a cause of conflict with the locals as their business rivalry
with the locals many a times results in serious crimes. It is practically Russians and
big businessmen who have taken possession of Morjim.
The Russians are influencing local youths and are also learnt to be imposing their
culture in the village. A statue of the great communist leader, V Lenin was erected
by an NRI a few days back to attract Russians. This issue figured prominently in the
gram sabha of the Morjim village panchayat. So, the Pernem mamlatdar, Mr Sankwalkar
had to step in to ensure that the statue is removed.
Huge banners and flags of Russians are seen during the season at prominent points of
Vithalwadi - mostly Russians are staying there and even running shacks. Many banners
that are put up by the Russians in their language are highly objected to by the locals
who claim that the government must intervene to stop this Russian culture that is
steadily taking roots in Morjim or else they feel that the entire Pernem coastal belt
would soon be completely captured by the Russians.
A reliable source in the village said the nexus among the drug peddlers, politicians

Courtesy:navahindtimes.com

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