The Goan: Why do you think our system for the protectionof monuments, their remnants and artifacts of heritage value is so lax?
Victor Hugo Gomes: If we are lax when heritage homes,temples and churches are broken into and no action is taken, then the robberyof antique objects just highlights the insensitivity within our system. Who dowe hold responsible? Is there a local body that can monitor such mishaps andprobably keep vigilance over the display and protection of artefacts andmonuments of heritage value? What is the role of the ASI in this regard? Arethey given authority to intervene? There is a lack of accountability and morethan the system we are all to be blamed for this lax in attitude towards ourown heritage.
The Goan: With regards to the Church of St Augustinebuilt by the Augustinian Friars in 1687, how significant was it in Goa'shistory?
VHG: The Augustinian friars, who arrived in Goa in 1587,built this church. They deserted the church and the convent as a resultof religious oppression in 1835. According to reports, During the conservationwork carried out by ASI's Mini Circle, on one of the side altars of the St.Augustine Church complex, a burial chamber was discovered below the floor infront of the altar.
TG: What would be the value of remnants of the brokenwalls, artefacts, crosses, etc that is lying either strewn or piled neatly atdifferent places over there?
VHG: This monument is protected by the ASI and considereda heritage site. They connect us to our past and history, thus indicting thatall remnants in this area have heritage as well as a historical value. Theyneed to be secured accordingly. Valuation depends upon the category thespecified object falls in, the legal environment of the object, theaccessibility to the objects amongst other indicators. The remnants of the St.Augustine tower is protected by the heritage law and the sale of such objectsis illegal so their monetary value is accordingly high as they are not meantfor sale.
TG: What is usually the mechanism to protect such sitesand artefacts?
VHG: By proper mapping of the site, a detailed inventoryand cataloguing that will help secure and locate the various piecesaccordingly. Additionally tight security is of utmost importance. The ASI hasto be a vigilant and their primary goal has to be to protect and preserve ourhistory.
TG: Are inventories made of the remnants lying around?
VHG: Well as the excavations happen the inventories aremade, so yes there should be documentation of all the artefacts, catalogues andan inventory that should be in place. ASI is supposed to follow strictprocedures, as far as I know.
The Goan: How frequently are these inventories checked?
VHG: According to my knowledge, there has to be a systemthat allows regular checking any time. That should be the procedure. However,what is practiced, I do not know.
Victor Hugo Gomes inthe curator and owner of the Goa Chitra Museum in Benaulim
