October 3rd 2023.
Revisiting Goa's long-standing tradition of communal amity, civil society members took a pledge on Monday at the historic Lohia Maidan, on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, to protect the social fabric of the state and to hand it over to the new generation. An unity Jyot was lit as a sign of the commitment of the people of Goa to maintain communal peace and harmony.
The event was attended by members of the civil society, Congress and Goa Forward, who expressed their concerns about the recent incidents of communal strife that have occurred in Goa. Konkani activist Principal Anant Agni initiated the proceedings by stressing the need to bring together all Goans on the National Unity Day. He further called on the people of Goa to come together in large numbers at the Lohia Maidan, Margao on October 31st, to showcase their unity.
Goa Forward Chief Vijai Sardesai then directed his ire towards the BJP government, accusing them of fomenting communal trouble for political gains. Ex-GPCC Chief Girish Chodankar pointed out that communal elements first started to raise their heads in Goa in 1999 when the BJP attempted to gain power.
Social activist Rama Kankonkar also spoke on the occasion, expressing fear that the future of Goa and democracy would be threatened if the ruling party were to win the upcoming Lok Sabha election. He encouraged people to be aware of the politics that the BJP is playing in the name of religion.
Former student leader Prashant Naik made an emotional plea to the people to join hands and attend the Unity rally at the Lohia Maidan, Margao on October 31. He reiterated the importance of keeping the social fabric of Goa intact by standing united against the divisive forces. Raidanath Shirodkar, Olencio Simoes and others echoed this sentiment, urging everyone to join the rally.
In conclusion, it is clear that Goa's communal harmony and social fabric are of utmost importance to its people, and that the people of Goa will go to great lengths to protect it.
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