Tensions boiled over at Azad Maidan on Thursday as the police stopped activists, who had gathered at the historic site to pay homage to Goa’s Liberation martyrs and to mourn the 25 people who lost their lives in the re cent fire tragedy at Birch by Romeo Lane in Arpora, triggering sharp criticism from civil society groups. Members of the Goa Bachao Abhiyan (GBA) said the gathering was intended solely to honour freedom fighters on Goa Liberation Day and to express solidar ity with families affected by the Arpora fire. The activ ists claimed they were de nied permission citing the Election Code of Conduct. GBA convenor Dr Sabi na Martins said the denial reflected a deeper erosion of democratic freedoms. “We came to pay homage to the martyrs who gave us freedom and to mourn the tragic loss of 25 lives in Ar pora. Goa today needs lib eration from the many ills it faces. Since the admin istration has refused per mission, we are calling off the programme,” she said. Activists raised several issues, including restric tions on public expression, selective enforcement of rules, and marginalisation of local communities. They alleged that while large scale festivals and com mercial events are routine ly allowed at Azad Maidan, locals are prevented from even placing wreaths at the martyrs’ memorial. Activist Zarina Da Cunha said the move was disrespect ful to Goa’s history. “We are peace-loving citizens who came to honour our forefathers. It is unfortunate that people are discouraged from paying respect to those who fought for Goa’s freedom. Rules appear to change every minute. Authorities are citing the Code of Conduct, though there is no election in Panjim and only Zilla Panchayat elections are being held,” she said, alleging widespread administrative irregularities. Dr Martins claimed that unchecked commercial inter ests were dominating the State. “Builders, casino oper ators, nightclub and land mafias have taken over. Locals are losing control over their land, resources and identity. We are becoming marginalised in our own State,” she said, adding that environmental degradation and unregulated development were among the growing concerns. Another activist, SwapneshSherlekar, questioned the timing of the elections and the restrictions imposed on Liberation Day. “If people are prevented from gathering on Liberation Day, then what is the meaning of liberation? We did not come here to protest. If the Election Code of Con duct is the reason, then who decided to schedule elections immediately after Liberation Day?” he asked. The activists said the incident reflected shrinking civic space and called for renewed commitment to democrat ic rights, environmental protection and respect for Goa’s freedom struggle.
Cops block activists from paying homage to martyrs, Arpora victims
