OLD GOA
The Save Old Goa Action Committee (SOGAC) has written to the Director of Archives and Archaeology demanding that the notification for imposition of fee towards entry to Our Lady of Mount Chapel (Monte Chapel) in Old Goa be withdrawn.
A delegation of SOGAC led by president Fatima Pereira submitted the petition to the Director at his office at Panaji on Thursday.
Copies of the petition have been addressed to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, the archbishop, the governor, archives minister, Cumbarjua MLA, Se Old Goa panchayat and others.
In the complaint, SOGAC has pointed out that the Chapel is a living monument actively functioning as place of worship.
"Imposing an entry fee is inconsistent with its religious use and may hinder devotees from attending services," the representation further states.
SOGAC has further underlined that the Chapel is owned by the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman while questioning the authority of the government in imposing entry fee without consulting the owner.
Further, SOGAC has opined that no public consultation was undertaken before publishing the notification.
"This lack of consultation disregards the sentiments and rights of the parish community and the faithful at large," SOGAC adds.
Finally, SOGAC has demanded the Directorate of Archives and Archaeology revoke the decision of imposition of entry fee for the Chapel of Our Lady of Mount and to engage in dialogue with the Archdiocese, the parish, and the local community to arrive at a mutually agreeable decision.
Among others who formed part of SOGAC delegation included coordinator Peter Viegas, secretary Milagrina, members Freddy Dias, Evaristo Rodrigues, Vincent D'Silva, and others.
