MARGAO: A dream project of the Ambelim panchayat came to life on Sunday with the unveiling of the statue of Dr Jack Sequeira in the village, which was met with loud cheers, chanting of slogans, and a round of applause. The family of the (late) Sequeira, who is considered the ‘Father of the Opinion Poll,’ was also present for the function.
Rich tribute was paid to Sequeira and his role in shaping Goa. Historian Prajal Sakhardande, who listed in detail all that Sequeira had done in his political career to ‘protect Goa’ and added that Goans have to thank Sequeira and the other leaders who were instrumental in providing yeoman service for having supported the unique and separate identity of Goa. Sequeira’s pathbreaking and fiery stint as Goa’s first Opposition leader was also recalled.
The Ambelim panchayat expressed pride that this is the first statue honouring Dr. Jack Sequeira in South Goa and added that even though they may be a small-sized village, they have a big heart that will always remember what Sequeira had done for Goa.
There was special praise from the speakers on the dais for activist Anthony Da Silva, who had first proposed this plan during an Ambelim gram sabha and then constantly followed it up with all the authorities concerned. Anthony expressed great happiness that this moment could be shared with the three daughters of Dr Sequeira as well as Sequeira’s grandson and great-grandson.
