MARGAO: “We need a new revolution and a new movement to face modern challenges so that Goa can continue to be amongst the progressive States in the country,” said Deputy Chief Minister Vijai Sardesai, while addressing the Goa Revolution Day function at Lohia maidan in Margao.
While acknowledging that the struggle for Goa’s liberation from Portuguese rule began with the Pintos revolt in 1987, he admitted that the clarion call given by Dr Ram Manohar Lohia on June 18, 1946, was the beginning of the final revolt to free Goa of foreign rule.
However, he said modern Goa has new challenges and said new revolutions are required to address these issues.
He assured the gathering that GSUDA will shortly be inviting tenders for the beautification of Lohia Maidan which is proposed to be undertaken at the cost of Rs. 2.80 crore and has assured that before the next Goa Revolution Day celebration, the place will be beautified.
Margao MLA Digambar Kamat appreciated and saluted the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters. He added that the continuous battle by the freedom fighters to change Goa even after the liberation is laudable and specially mentioned Gurunath Kelekar for his work even at present.
Vaman Prabhugaonkar, who was present for Dr Lohia’s movement on the historic day, recalled the freedom struggle and the sacrifices they had made and suggested that a museum dedicated to Goa’s freedom movement be set up either at Panjim or Margao. Earlier Vijai along with Margao MLA Digambar Kamat and freedom fighters paid floral tributes to Dr Lohia at his statue on the Maidan.
