the goan I network
MARGAO
The contentious issue of construction of Kabrastan for the Muslim community at Sonsodo came up for discussion between the government and the stake holders, with Chief Minister, Manohar Parrikar making clear that the acquired land admeasuring 30,000 sq mts will solely vest with the Margao Municipal body and not the Jama Masjid as was agreed upon by former Chief Minister, Digambar Kamat in 2011.
The meeting, which was attended by TCP Minister Vijai Sardesai and Revenue Minister Rohan Khaunte, however, remained inconclusive, with the Chief Minister promising to have a meeting with representatives of people from Borda opposing the burial ground. Various groups, including Fr Savio Fernandes, Rajan Solomon, Matin Carol, Haj Chairman Sheikh Jina and Felix Dias and others attended the meeting.
Though the meeting remained inconclusive, the Chief Minister further made it clear that no construction will take place on the acquired land without the relevant permissions. He also made it clear that except for Kabrastan, the acquired land will not play host to any other religious structure, including a Masjid.
During discussion, the Chief Minister is believed to have observed that the agreement signed by the MMC with the Muslim body, Jamia Masjid, has not been vetted by the government.
Saying that the agreement will now be rescinded, it was pointed out that the Municipality will look after the upkeep and maintenance of the acquired land.
The group comprising Abdul Matin tried to remove the misconception in the minds of the people that the acquired will be used to construct a Masjid. The group pointed out that Masjid cannot come up on an acquired land, more so which has been acquired for Kabrastan.
After the meeting, the TCP Minister said the meeting, though inconclusive, had tried to evolve a solution to the vexed issue, saying a final decision will be taken by the government after the Chief Minister have a meeting with people opposing the Kabrastan.
