Even in death, she lived her real self, Madgavkars mourn
MARGAO
As neighbours, friends and residents poured at her residence located near the St Joseph High School, Aquem-Vidynagar, Margao Municipal Chief Babita Angle Prabhudesai and local MLAs, Digambar Kamat and Vijai Sardesai, led the citizens in condoling Ashlesha’s death and paying rich tributes to the councillor representing ward 21 of the city.
The first-time councillor was described as a soft-spoken, silent worker, cooperative and ever-ready to lend a helping hand in need.
Babita Angle described Ashlesha as a helpful person. “I found her to be very compassionate towards others,” Babita said, while extending her condolences to the bereaved family.
Digambar Kamat, who had fielded Ashlesha in ward 11 on his Model Margao panel in the October 2015 election, said she was sincere in her work and was slowly but steadily building her relationship with her ward people. “Ashlesha was a very good personality, very soft spoken and helpful. I knew her father Ramesh very well, who is a popular personality. Her name was suggested for ward 21 and people had reposed their faith in her in the election,” Kamat said, while extending his condolences to the bereaved family.
The Margao MLA along with MMC councillors were at the Goa Medical College and hospital on Sunday evening after Ashlesha’s body was shifted there from the ID hospital Ponda.
Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai said it was very unfortunate that the woman, who tried to save someone, ended in losing her life, which only showed her helping nature.
MMC vice-Chairperson Doris Texeira had last spoken to Ashlesha at 9.46 am on Sunday and both were scheduled to visit councillor Terence Barbosa to wish him on his daughter’s birthday. “When I had called Ashlesha at 9.46 am, she said she is going for a picnic, but promised to meet me at 8.20 pm to go to Terence’s house,” Doris said, while praying that her soul may rest in peace.
BJP councillor Rupesh Mahatme said Ashlesha was very supportive and cooperative in the civic body. “When we came to know of the tragedy, we all councillors, including the Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson rushed to Ponda,” he said.
Sources said that Ashlesha’s mortal remains will be brought to the city from the GMC at 11 am on Monday for the last rites.
The Shadow Council for Margao too expressed its deep shock and grief over Ashlesha’s tragic death, saying she was known to be a dedicated person, ever willing to help people. “This fact was exhibited by her till her last breath. In a very short period as a councillor, this ever smiling lady was always seen trying to help people and addressing the issues of her ward,” Savio Coutinho said.
