3 days ago
Francisco Luis Gomes' ancestral house to be restored soon: Min
Margao:
Minister for archives and archaeology, Subhash Phal Dessai, on Saturday said that his department would soon take steps towards the restoration of the ancient house of the Goan freedom fighter Francisco Luis Gomes, which now lies in a ramshackle condition.
He also mentioned that he would personally inspect the house located at Colmorod, Navelim.
'I will ensure that the house is not only restored to its original glory but also becomes a symbol of inspiration for the younger generation to imbibe the values the great leader stood for and learn about all that he did for his motherland,' Phal Dessai said. He made these statements while addressing the gathering at a function held to commemorate Gomes's birth anniversary.
Known as the 'prince of intellectuals', Gomes, who represented Goa in the Portuguese parliament, was also a historian, an economist, a doctor, and a writer. He died in 1869. Withstanding the ravages of time and vagaries of nature, Gomes's ancestral house, which is perhaps the last remaining vestige of his legacy, has served as a testimony to his life and works.
After
TOI
first highlighted the condition of this dilapidated house in a report on May 31, 2009, the Margao Municipal Council (MMC), in its council meeting held on Nov 5, 2009, passed a resolution to 'acquire the old house…and conserve the same for future generations.'
While the resolution has been gathering dust ever since, the house has so far survived the eyes of the land sharks.
Further, Phal Dessai said, 'Prior to Goa's liberation movement, it was Dr Francisco Luis Gomes who raised his voice in the Portuguese parliament for the liberation of Goa. He used to argue passionately for civil liberties, educational reforms, economic development, and justice. He was one of the earliest Indian leaders to talk about the rights of colonised people, not just in Goa but across India.'
Former Navelim MLA Luizinho Faleiro, South Goa collector Egna Cleetus, and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.
