PANJIM: Rajya Sabha MP Luizinho Faleiro wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the matter of constructing a central museum complex as a fitting tribute to noted historian and Parliamentarian from Goa, Dr Francisco Luis Gomes, at Navelim, his birthplace.
Dr Gomes was a doctor, writer, philosopher, politician, historian and economist. He was elected to represent Goa in the Cortes, the then Portuguese Parliament, where he surprised the European countries with his fluent oratorical skills and the passionate defence of his motherland India and Goa. His 153rd death anniversary will be observed on September 30.
In his letter, Faleiro said that he had moved a resolution during the last monsoon session of the Rajya Sabha urging the Government of India to construct the museum complex in Navelim, where land has been specially reserved for the purpose. However, the motion couldn’t be discussed as the House was adjourned. “I have funds in the MPLAD Scheme which I readily offer for such a museum complex. However, since I represent the State of West Bengal in the Rajya Sabha, the utilisation of funds in Goa may require special permission. If such permission is obtained, that would be my contribution to the project. I wish to discuss this with you and I have asked for an appointment with you separately,” Faleiro said in his letter.
“Dr Gomes belongs to the world and India, not just Goa. It is my request that the country accord this great man his due as this will be in keeping with the principles of decolonising the mindset of the people that you are striving for,” Faleiro wrote.
Long before socialism could make a mark in the world, Dr Francisco Luis Gomes had been propounding the transfer of power from the classes to the masses, just as he demanded freedom for India, years before the Indian National Congress could be formed and take up the cause.
