Govt would take over Chowgule College: CM

Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar assured the delegation of All Members of Teaching and Non-Teaching Staff, of the Higher Secondary Section of Smt. Parvatibai Chowgule College of Arts and Science, Margao, that if the management of the college does not drop the idea to closing the higher secondary, the government would take over the entire college if required. The delegation was led by former Fatorda MLA Damodar Naik.

Speaking to media persons after the meeting, teacher Shrikant More said that they are against granting any permission for the proposed move towards closure of the higher secondary section, or any part thereof, that is currently being contemplated by the management from the academic year 2012-2013, or at any time thereafter. An application for the same has already been filed by college authorities who are seeking approval to go ahead with such plans.

“Considering the grave consequences that may follow in the educational field in and around Margao during the next academic year beginning June 2012, we request you to restrain the management from taking such a drastic decision of closing the said higher secondary section of the Chowgule College,” the petitioners said in the memorandum.

Meanwhile, in Margao, not wanting to be left behind on an issue which he has vehemently fought for; Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai stated that the ‘ action committee against closure of Chowgule HSS’ which he helped form was the first group to have taken up the issue and said that were willing to even take to the streets if necessary.

“When he was the leader of opposition, Parrikar had taken a stand that the assets of Chowgule College should be taken over and thus now as he is the chief minister and given the rigid stance of the Chowgule College management, I am positive that he will make the right decision,” said Sardesai.