In Panaji, during the Independence Day celebrations, opposition leader Yuri Alemao expressed concerns about cases of hill cutting and emphasized that holding talathis accountable for these violations is insufficient since politicians are also involved in the wrongdoing. Alemao urged action to be taken against the politicians connected to these illegal activities, particularly those involved in real estate and the Town and Country Planning Department. He criticized the alienation of Goa's land and questioned the lack of progress on the promised special status for Goa. Alemao expressed doubt that the state government would effectively address the ongoing issue of rampant hill cutting in Goa, citing corruption within the government. He also highlighted the recent murder in Baga, which was reportedly fueled by a drug purchase dispute. Alemao criticized the Chief Minister for not addressing the opposition's concerns about the escalating drug trade in the state, noting that some police officers themselves are involved in drug activities. He called for greater police action against drug trafficking and other criminal activities in Goa.