THE GOAN NETWORK
OLD GOA
In a bid to resolve the issue of vendors selling candles, flowers and wax figurines, 18 vendors have been identified to sell the same but in the stalls that will be allotted to them at Bhakia parking.
Speaking to reporters, Power Minister Aleixo Sequeira informed that they have identified 18 vendors who have been selling such items for 30-40 years.
"These vendors have been asked to provide photos after which they will be allotted passes and then they can start selling the items but they will have to limit themselves to the stalls. They won't be allowed to move around," Sequeira stated and added that if they break the rule then the decision will be reviewed.
The Minister then said the Se Old Goa panchayat had allotted passes to 300 persons and it is impossible to accommodate all of them, as then everything will be a mess.
"We can't allow the system to go haywire," Sequeira informed and said that there will be certain areas identified where the candles can be deposited.
"Nobody will be allowed to light the candles," Sequeira reaffirmed.
Fr Henry Falcao, Convenor of the Exposition Committee for the Archdiocese, said they are not against those selling candles and flowers, as it is also part of the devotion.
"The only issue is that the system should not fall apart. So, this decision has been taken together by the Church and the government to ensure that the system is maintained," Fr Falcao added.
