As ASI is the sole restorer, conservator, protector and caretaker of the Basilica as per the Act, the Rector of the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Fr Patricio Fernandes, finds himself helpless. The Rector said unless ASI grants them permission, others cannot touch the monument, which is difficult to obtain. “As a result the deterioration worsens, and the monument can fall apart,” he said, while adding that the Basilica is a living monument owned by the Archdiocese of Goa with the Archbishop as its head, the Basilica Admin-istrative Committee with the President as its overseer, the Rector as its Administrator and the resting place of Goencho Saib and the spiritual rejuvenator of all Goans, irrespective of caste, creed or community. “It is a fact that the Basilica, Casa Professa and the property belong to the Church and the ASI sees to the restoration, conservation and protection only of the Basilica and not the other parts. In the present setup, the ASI has not been able to carry out professional care of the Basilica,” he said. He added that the tendering is done to the lowest bidder and that the funds are never sufficient, the office is ill-equipped with personnel and that thus, they feel helpless. “But as pointed out to the ASI Goa circle, they cannot be condoned, and they must take responsibility to supervise the tendered works and not leave them as the result is irresponsible and shabbily done work,” he added.
With ASI the sole restorer, rector finds himself helpless
