MARGAO
A group of citizens participated in a candle light vigil to pay respects to Fr Stan Swamy in front of the Holy Spirit Church, Margao on Tuesday, even as they prayed that his death help the people to continue his struggle without fear, courage, love and enthusiasm.
City-based cardiologist Dr Francisco Colaco said the death of Fr Stan Swamy was literally a murder as he was denied proper medical care for an aged persons with a serious medical disorder.
As the citizens gathered around to light candles as a mark of respect to Fr Stan, Holy Spirit Parish Priest Fr Amandio Valladares offered a small prayer to bless the country and enlighten those in authority to do what is right.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Colaco said Fr Stan’s death is not only sad, but a gross miscarriage of justice, saying that good men never die.
“Fr Stan will be forever amongst us, his noble thoughts, love for the marginalized, long sufferings will always remain in the hearts of countless Indians”, he said, as he saluted the brave martyr.
Yogesh Nagvekar said Fr Stan has been was fighting for the tribals, for the society as a whole, adding “all of us as citizens of this country are standing in solidarity for justice for Fr Stan”.
Social activist Jose Marie Miranda said Fr Stan was a gift to the society, adding “through his efforts the adivasis and Dalits, who were being denied their rights, Fr Stan stood by them, and many of their rights were bestowed on them”.
“It is unfortunate that the same person who had fought for 3000 persons, who were arrested had to meet the same fate. Those in power believed that the best way to get rid of the people for work for others is by arresting and putting them in jail”, he said.
Adv. Seoula Vaz and others also spoke. Margao Municipal Councilor Camilo Barretto, Fatorda Block Congress president Piedade Norohna, former MMC Chairperson Elino Colaco and others participated in the candle light vigil.
