DM directs temple panels in Sanguem to apply for govt land
HERALD REPORTER
MARGAO, MAY 3
The high-level committee headed by the District Magistrate, South Goa G P Naik has asked representatives of Temple committees in Sanguem to apply to the government for allotment of land to excluded these structures from demolition.
At a meeting held in the district Collectorate here this morning with representatives of the Temple Committees, the district Magistrate said Temples located on government land have been excluded from the demolition exercise in cases where the government has made the land allotment.
“The committee has suggested to the Temple representatives to apply for grant of land in order to exclude them fro the demolition. They have agreed to the suggestion, but at the same time, the committees should act fast”, Naik said.
Naik admitted that there are some religious structures dating back to 80-100 years can be saved by shifting or seeking allotment of land for their relocation.
Replying to a question, Naik said most of the Temples do not come under road widening and only around 10 small structures may go for demolition in Sanguem taluka.
He, however, said that the committee has recommended removal of religious structures coming under road widening and road alignment, adding that a recommendation has been made to shift age-old religious structures.
“I feel there will be no problem as far as Sanguem is concerned. After today’s meeting, I strongly feel that most of the religious structures can still be saved from demolition”, he added.
This is the second time in less than a week that the district Magistrate held interactions with the representatives of Temples from the talukas of Quepem, Canacona and Sanguem.
The second round of interaction will now take place between the religious heads from the talukas of Salcete and Mormugao taluka.
