Team Herald
MARGAO: The Gram Sabha of Velsao village has unanimously approved and passed a resolution to install a statue of Dr Jack de Sequeira, known as the Father of the Opinion Poll, at Upasnagar Junction through crowdfunding.
The proposal, which aims to honour the leader who played a crucial role in preventing Goa’s merger with Maharashtra in 1967, received widespread support from the Gram Sabha members.
The statue project is targeted for completion by January 16, next year, coinciding with the 59th anniversary of the historic Opinion Poll.
In his proposal to the panchayat, local resident Orville Dourado Rodrigues emphasised the significance of commemorating Sequeira’s legacy, particularly in light of recent demographic changes affecting Goan identity.
"Erecting a statue
in memory of Dr Jack de Sequeira is of particular importance, as our very own identity is being
diluted due to large-scale demographic changes in recent years. This statue will not only commemorate a historical event but also honour a visionary leader and inspire patriotism in our youth, most of whom are not connected to Goa's recent history,” said Rodrigues.