MARGAO: Citizens of Margao, under the banner of collective NGOs, social activists, senior citizens and others, have written to the Margao Municipal Council (MMC), voicing their strong exception the existing rule of security deposit for holding public meetings and similar events at the historic Lohia Maidan, located in the heart of Margao.
They say the amount sought for security deposit is too high and have made a strong plea to cancel the ongoing security deposit system for hiring of Lohia Maidan.
“We as activists, social workers, NGO organizations, senior citizens and others have raised the issues that create awareness for the betterment of our State and its people, and we do all these activities with our own money. We are ready to pay Rs 500 as Lohia Maidan rent,” the letter addressed to the MMC pointed out.
At Lohia Maidan there is nothing called ‘security’, as there is no high fencing to stop anybody from entering.
Further, it has been noticed on a daily basis that the place is frequented by beggars, rag-pickers, anti-social elements, prostitutes etc and the government authorities close their eyes or look the other way instead of maintaining this historic place, the letter went on.
While questioning the reason for a security deposit the letter said concerned citizens who are exposing issues in the interest of Goa and Goans have to unnecessarily shell out money as security deposit for social cause. This is astonishing and questionable.
