PANAJI
The State government on Wednesday told the High Court of Bombay at Goa that freedom fighters drew inspiration from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj during the struggle for Goa’s liberation, as it defended its decision to retain the statue on Mormugao Port Authority land at Sada and pursue its acquisition through lawful means.
Chief Secretary, through Advocate General Devidas Pangam, submitted an affidavit informing the Court that it wants the statue to remain at its existing location, citing Shivaji Maharaj’s place in Goan history and the sentiments surrounding his legacy.
“Our freedom struggle drew inspiration from Shivaji Maharaj, and our freedom fighters were inspired by him too. Keeping in mind these historical connections and the sentiments of the people of Goa, we want the statue to remain at the same site, in its present form. We will acquire the land in accordance with the law,” Pangam said.
Describing the government’s stand as a mark of respect for the Maratha king, Pangam added, “It is a mark of great respect for him.”
The government’s position comes amid the High Court’s proceedings over the unauthorised installation of the statue on MPA land. The statue’s organisers unveiled it on February 19, 2026, without the port authority’s consent, after which the latter moved the Court seeking its removal.
The State thereafter conveyed its decision to acquire the land, after which the Division Bench of Justice Valmiki Menezes and Justice Amit Jamsandekar directed the Chief Secretary to explain the proposed acquisition of the 178 sq mtrs plot, including its cost, the source of funds and the statutory provisions that would allow the government to purchase the land.
The court had also cautioned the State against spending public money to protect private interests or regularise an unauthorised structure. On April 7, the Bench directed the district administration and police to assist the MPA in removing the encroachment, but authorities repeatedly delayed the operation, citing possible law-and-order problems. The Bench will hear the matter next on November 3.
