Team Herald
MARGAO: The Goa Forward Party (GFP) has filed a complaint with the UNESCO regarding the attempts of the State government through the Greater Panaji PDA to heighten development around Old Goa churches and destroy the significance of the religious sites revered by the world.
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In the complaint letter to Mechtild Rossler, Director, UNESCO World Heritage Centre and Rohit Jigyasu Vice President, International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), GFP president Vijai Sardesai states that he is defending and preserving the future of Old Goa. Vijai explained how his hometown and its heritage face the risk of heightened development.
“On behalf of the people of Goa, I write to you in anxiety that the future of our beloved Old Goa faces the risk of heightened development as a result of administrative policies determined by the government of the State of Goa. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, Old Goa is home to the unique soul of Goa which represents the ideals of secularism and plurality embodying the spirit of India,” he said.
“Since the 15th century, the sites that stand today; the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Se Cathedral, Church of Saint Cajetan, and Church of Saint Augustine, are not only acclaimed cultural and historical monuments but are symbols of faith for the numerous Goan Catholics that express their devotion to their religion and culture; most especially to the relics of St. Francis Xavier,” Sardesai said.
“For decades since Goa’s statehood, the people of Goa regardless of religion, referred to Old Goa as ‘Saibachem Goem’ in our native Konkani. Our parents and ancestors taught us the values of respect, and tolerance regardless if we are Hindu, Muslim, or Christian. In November, we celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights, in December we honour the life of St Francis, and celebrate Christmas, while in the summer, we celebrate Eid – but throughout the year, we collectively celebrate being Goan, and take pride in it – for who we are, and who we aim to be,” Vijai stated.
“On November 20, 2020, I was alerted and alarmed to learn that the government of Goa decided to place the Ella village of Old Goa under the Greater Panaji Planning and Development Authority of Goa. This is a brazen act of poaching and encroachment of boundaries determined by the UNESCO in 1986. Under these provisions, the government of Goa could allow building height to reach 30 metres in various commercial zones as against the 9-metre height restriction which is currently allowed,” he alleged.
“As a voice and advocate for the people and culture of Goa, we have begun raising this issue amongst the local population and have demanded the government of Goa, the Chief Minister of the State; Hon. Pramod Sawant, and the Town and Country Planning Minister of the State; Hon. Chandrakant ‘Babu’ Kavlekar – to immediately and effectively withdraw their decision before the December 3, 2020, the feast day of St. Francis Xavier,” he stated.
“However, my concerns remain that the government of Goa may choose to ignore our plea and move ahead with the development of high-rise structures coming as close as 100 metres to the UNESCO site. Therefore, I urge you UNESCO, ICOMOS, to Save Old Goa for the people and future of Goa which now stands at risk, and I seek your help in restoring the soul of Goa,” Vijai urged.
“This is a protest we are not willing to give up on, and I urge the international cultural community to stand united with the people of Goa to defend and preserve the future of our history,” he requested.
