The issue surrounding the Sancoale church should have been resolved long ago without being brought up in the House, as it seems to be instigated by vested interests aiming to disrupt the harmony among communities that have coexisted peacefully for centuries. Politicians raising this matter in the assembly may exacerbate tensions rather than resolve them. Perhaps the Speaker should have refrained from allowing such discussions in the House and left it to the police to handle, given the sensitivity of the issue.
The Sancoale monument, under the custody of ASI, should not require interference in a delicate communal matter. It raises questions as to why the police and local authorities have not addressed the potential issue. Independent Cortalim MLA Antonio Vas brought up the matter, prompting questions as to why Chief Minister Pramod Sawant did not intervene to provide a clearer explanation in the press to defuse the situation.
Despite advocating against instigation of religious disharmony, Sawant’s response was merely to note the concern raised by his colleague. It is imperative to address this issue promptly, considering the protected status of the monument under ASI custody, and take strict action against trespassers and those inciting communal tensions.
