Team Herald
PANJIM: A day after holding the people and the capital city to ransom for almost five hours, the protesting mining dependents tendered an apology to the citizens for the inconvenience to them due to violent and destructive attitude of a few.
Nearly 5000 mining dependents on Monday resorted to violence and blocked vehicular movement on the national highway near Panjim bus stand, demanding the immediate resumption of mining activities. Police were forced to lathi charge to clear the road, which was blocked from 11am to 3pm.
All Goa Truck Owners Association (AGTOA) President Nilkant Gawas on Tuesday said, “As the leader of the mining dependents, I take entire responsibility for what happened yesterday and with folded hands I apologise to the people, who were affected.”
He added, “Intentionally or unintentionally, many of my people indulged in fights, used abusive words, caused panic. I apologise on their behalf.”
“If my people assaulted or abused any mother, father, brother, sister, I am sorry. I am extremely sorry,” he said assuring that this will not be repeated.
Hinting that the mining dependents may take to the streets again, Gawas said “I appeal to the people of Goa to extend their support to us in our fight for survival.”
Hundreds of students, senior citizens and even patients in ambulances were stuck in traffic for hours as protestors refused to vacate the site. The protestors were seen arguing, fighting with the commuters, who requested them not to block the road.
