PANAJI
The Tourism Department’s official Twitter handle while giving information about Aguada fort termed Maratha warriors as ‘invaders’ causing an uproar which culminated with the Leader of Opposition Digambar Kamat demanding an inquiry into the howler. The Twitter handle of Goa Tourism issued an apology soon after.
“The Aguada Jail is part of the beautiful Fort Aguada which was built in the year 1612. This fort which once defended the Portuguese stronghold against the Dutch and Maratha invaders is divided into two parts- The upper and the lower fort,” read the first tweet from @TourismGoa.
Soon after posting the tweet, the Tourism Department deleted it and issued an apology. “In our post about Aguada fort, the word “invader” was meant to be used for the Dutch. It was intended to be read ‘stronghold against Dutch invaders and Maratha rulers’ instead of the erroneous reference. We regret the error and apologise,” the official handle posted.
Several citizens and members of the Opposition were quick in questioning the usage and severely criticised the authorities for their choice of terminology in reference to the mighty Maratha rulers.
“I strongly protest because the Maratha empire was created by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the contribution of Shivaji and Sambhaji in the state of Goa is known everywhere and is recorded in history,” stated Leader of Opposition Kamat. He added that the Marathas have worked for the benefit of ‘Swarajya’ and for converting it into ‘Su-raj’ and pointed out that Shivaji is respected not only in the country but all over the world as a personality who worked tirelessly for the community irrespective of caste, creed and religion.
“This type of propaganda is hurtful. I urge the government to enquire into the matter, fix responsibility and take action,” Kamat said. He further accused the BJP government of insulting the Marathas by calling the great warriors “invaders”. “@TourismGoa clarification makes propaganda of Salazar’s Portuguese regime. Is this the MODIfied history @BJP4India now writing @goacm?” Kamat tweeted.
