Margao – Tributes to 23 Martyrs massacred by Portuguese troops on this day, 21st September 1890 near Holy Spirit Church, Margao for demanding to perform their democratic right to vote in elections. This day needs to be commemorated officially by Government & included in academic syllabus, stated Youth Leader Prabhav Naik.
Such events should be observed to pay homage to the innocent citizens who were demanding to perform their democratic rights. But, at the same time, we must ensure that acts of supression of democratic rights should not be repeated again, said Prabhav Naik.
I want to remind the citizens of Goa about the dictatorial amendement done to Municipal Act for electing Chairperson of Municipal Council by raising hands. This amendment was brought on instance of Margao MLA Digambar Kamat who faced humiliating defeat of his nominee Damodar Shirodkar when Councillor Ghanashyam Shirodkar won the election with secret ballot. The said amendement is reflection of Portuguese Salazarshahi, charged Prabhav Naik.
I will soon initiate a movement to impress upon the government to commemorate the historic event annually. I will consult senior citizens of Margao as well as youths to chalk out an action plan, informed Prabhav Naik.
I have read in history books that the municipal elections were scheduled on 21st September 1890 and the said elections were rigged and people were denied their right to vote. As the protest increased, the Portuguese administrator directed armed force to fire on the people gathered near the Holy Spirit Church, stated Prabhav Naik.
While 17 people died on the spot including a woman, who was leaving the church and a young boy, who was playing at his house’s garden wall. Ultimately, 23 people were killed in the firing which lasted for 20 minutes, said Prabhav Naik.
Youth Leader Prabhav Naik said that the bullet marks can be seen even today at the house of Dr Salvador Alvares who has framed the marks with circular bass plaques.
