In a letter written to the Goa Chief Minister, Dr Pramod Sawant, on Monday, 19th September, BJP Goa Spokesperson and senior party leader from the Velim Constituency, has appealed to the centre and the Goa state government to setup a fund for the restoration of Heritage Catholic Churches in Goa.
Mentioning in the letter that the scheme introduced by the Goa government to restore the temples destroyed due to the Portuguese colonialism, by setting aside Rs 20 crores was a wonderful move to preserve the Indic heritage and culture, Savio added that in order to push further, the intent of the state’s government aimed at heritage preservation, it was his earnest appeal to the centre and the state to consider setting up a fund under a government scheme for the restoration of the Heritage Catholic Churches in Goa as well.
“Catholic Churches are a wonderful tourist attraction not only for people from the Christian community but also people from different religious communities that marvel at its history, its spiritual essence and its architectural prowess”, expressed the BJP Velim leader in his letter.
He further stated that some of the churches like The Velim Church, Church of Our Lady of Rosary, Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, Three Kings Chapel and many more are monumental wonders that must be preserved.
In addition to this, Savio suggested that a study could be initiated before commissioning the funds for the restoration or renovation of the churches. He then commended the centre and the state’s efforts to renovate and restore the renowned Bom Jesus Basilica, and appealed the governments to consider the other Catholic churches for the due revamp as they have historical, cultural, and religious significance for Goa and its people.
“As you know, the Christian community is an important stakeholder in the democracy of India. Goa is a state with a large Christian population, who have contributed immensely to the evolution of Goa and India as a global brand. We must endeavour to work with our Christian sisters and brothers to preserve our state’s historic Catholic Churches as they are an integral part of Goa’s rich and collective identity”, the letter further read.
The BJP Spokesperson also mentioned that he was looking forward to the continuous support of the governments, aimed at making Goa a truly secular state.
