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Demand made in response to Congress MLA Carlos Ferreira’s statement
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Demand to begin excavation from Se Cathedral Church
Panaji, Goa – Congress MLA Carlos Ferreira had stated that there is no historical evidence to support the “hand-cutting” narrative associated with the Haat Katro Khamb in Old Goa, and that all decisions regarding the matter should be based on concrete evidence.
Responding to this, Hindu Raksha Maha Aghadi has presented a clear and firm position. The organisation stated that if decisions are indeed to be based on evidence, then scientific excavation must be carried out at locations where such evidence is believed to exist.
Shri. Nitin Phaldesai, State Co-Coordinator of Hindu Raksha Maha Aghadi, said in a press release, “Regarding the Haat Katro Khamb, it is believed that evidence may be present beneath old churches in Goa. A few years ago, former Archaeological Department head K.K. Mohammed had initiated efforts in this regard; however, the then Congress government halted the process. Therefore, instead of broadly claiming that there is no evidence, it is necessary to carry out scientific investigation and bring the truth to light.”
He further stated that excavation should begin at the Se Cathedral Church premises and the site of the Palacio de Inquisition.
The Maha Aghadi also stated that if excavation is conducted transparently under the supervision of the Archaeological Department, historians, and technical experts, the truth can emerge and a final decision can be taken on the ongoing issue.
Key demands of Hindu Raksha Maha Aghadi
- Permission should be granted for scientific excavation at church premises where evidence is believed to exist.
- A committee of technical experts should be formed to ensure transparency.
- Excavation should begin from Se Cathedral Church.
- The complete report should be made public, and a final decision should be based on evidence.
Shri. Nitin Faldesai emphasised that if decisions are to be based on evidence, granting permission for excavation is the most appropriate course of action. The Maha Aghadi also stated that scientific investigation is essential to bring out the truth and help clear public confusion on the issue.