PANJIM: Goa Mining People’s Front (GMPF) convenor Puti Gaonkar on Sunday said he would make a major announcement at Azad Maidan, Panjim on Monday, September 20.

Gaonkar said he will make the announcement in the presence of Dharbandora Truck Owners’ Association president Balaji Gawas and mining machines operator Sandip Parab after attending a court matter.

Gaonkar said they have received summons asking to remain present in the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) E Court, Panjim regarding the morcha held in 2018. He said the morcha was organised by Curchorem MLA Nilesh Cabral with the reported blessings of the then Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar and claimed that he has evidence to substantiate his charge.

“I had not organised the morcha. But the reason for me to remain there was due to then North Goa Collector Nila Mohanan because I had told her that I will go to the Azad Maidan along with my workers numbering 1500. I never blocked the highway and I always held protest at Kranti circle,” said Gaonkar.

Gaonkar said it was unfortunate that all those who were lathi-charged by the police have been named as accused in the case. He said that earlier 74 persons were named in the FIR and that now their names have been added making it 77.

Gaonkar said after the court hearing they will come to the Azad Maidan, Panjim and make a major announcement which will be placed before the people of Goa.

Gaonkar alleged that he has been framed in the case because he is spearheading the agitation for resumption of mining operations and for speaking against the BJP government.

Balaji Gawas recently joined the MGP and announced his decision to contest the ensuing assembly elections from Sanvordem constituency.