the goan I network
MARGAO
Citizens from Borda, Raia and Curtorim opposing the government's proposal to build the controversial kabrastan at Sonsodo have demanded a study into the utilisation of the existing kabrastan at Pajifond, claiming that the existing burial ground, if utilised properly, can very well meet the requirements of the Muslim community.
Addressing the media, former Raia panch Xavier Fernandes pointed out that the group has carried out a study wherein they have found out that there is enough vacant land at the Pajifond kabrastan which can take care of the requirements of the Muslim community. "We have found out that there exists around 16,000 square meters of land at the existing kabrastan. But, there's mismanagement. The graves are not constructed in an orderly manner. If the entire area is developed, hundreds of graves can be built at the existing kabrastan," Xavier said.
He demanded that the government should take immediate steps to re-develop the existing kabrastan so that the needs of the Muslim community are addressed immediately. Xavier pointed out that there's a misconception in the minds of the people that the people opposing the kabrastan are targeting the Muslim community.
"We want to make clear to the Muslim leaders that we are not against the community. We have been only opposing the kabrastan at Sonsodo since it is proposed on a hillock with a steep gradient. Cutting of the hillock will destroy the ecology and environment of the area," he said.
Meanwhile, activist Felix Dias told the media that the Curtorim gram sabha had at its August meeting opposed the proposed kabrastan coming up at Sonsodo. Producing before the media a letter from Curtorim Sarpanch Rupesh Naik, Felix said the Curtorim gram sabha had categorically opposed the proposed kabrastan at Sonsodo apprehending damage to the ecology and environment.
