OLD GOA
Parish priest of St Michael’s Church at Taleigao Fr Cypriano da Silva gave more credence to the fact that only a small hut existed at the site of the controversial Old Goa structure, as the fast satyagraha completed 24 days on Friday.
“As we lived in the Pastoral Institute in 1980-81, I can recollect that there was a small hut in the area. Today, I was shocked to see such a huge construction which has come up using all unfair means to get licences,” Fr Silva informed.
The priest made the statement while leading the parishioners of Taleigao in supporting the fast satyagraha along with parishioners of Our Lady of Rosary Church, Caranzalem and Dabal.
The Caranzalem parishioners were led by their parish priest Fr Pio Almeida.
Speaking further, Fr Silva said it is hurting that Goans have given these licences to outsiders.
“There is a need to demolish the structure at the earliest so that we can save Old Goa and our heritage, especially for the future generations. I appeal to the government authorities to issue orders for its demolition at the earliest,” Fr Silva demanded.
Meanwhile, Premanand Divjekar, president of Calangute Constituency Forum, said they are extending their support to the agitation.
“Whatever has happened in the heritage area, it needs to be stopped and the government should demolish the structure. That is our only demand,” Divjekar stated and informed that the peaceful environment of the religious area needs to be maintained.
“If this construction is allowed, more constructions will come up. The peace of this religious place will be perturbed and we will not allow that to happen. This fight will be taken all over Goa,” he added.
Activist Clotildes Braganza, also from Calangute, said the illegal structure should be demolished and the government must act on that front.
Braganza also expressed concern over illegalities across the Stated which shows that everything has gone out of control.
“It appears there is no law in the State as things are happening illegally,” she added.
Dattaram Naik, president of Jai Damodar Association at Margao has demanded that the government act against the officials who have granted the licences without inspecting the site.
