MARGAO: The Central Management committee of Gakuved Federation visited Old Goa and extended total support to the ‘Save Old Goa action Committee’ and the citizens who have been on a continuous satyagraha since November 24 as part of the campaign against the controversial construction project that has come up in a protected area.
Federation President Suresh Palkar, General Secretary Rupesh Velip, Vice-Presidents Peter Viegas and Ravindra Velip along with other members such as Umesh Gaude, Anant Adkonkar, Lopinho Xavier, Narendra Vernekar, Ghanshyam Shirvoikar and Sukha Kunkalkar.
Speaking to the protestors, who are on a chain-hunger strike, Palkar said that the illegal structure which is built in the heritage site needs to be taken down at all cost. “This structure has been built by violating all the laws of the land. The law has specifically defined the meaning of ‘repair’, ‘renovation’ and ‘reconstruction’. Since the area falls under the archaeology department, the Central government is also equally responsible along with the State Government and local Panchayat for allowing the illegal building structure,” said Palkar.
He further gave assurances to them that whenever they require support Gakuved Federation will always be there.
Velip assured the satyagrahis that the federation will propagate the issue State wide. He further stated that the Gakuved federation will take calls for support from each and every village, panchayat area and talukas where Gakuved has its presence.
