Goa to go back to villages which saw anti-Portuguese revolt

Panaji, Feb 15 (PTI) Fifty years after Goa''sliberation from Portuguese rule, like-minded individuals andfreedom fighters who took part in the struggle will tour 200villages that saw rebellion against the foreign power.

A committee, headed by veteran freedom fighterFlaviano Dias, has been formed to chalk out an elaborateprogramme to spread awareness about the freedom struggle whichhad led to Goa''s liberation on December 12, 1961.

"We have noticed that the patriotic spirit amongst theyouth is on the wane," Subhash Velingkar, Working President ofthe committee, told reporters here today.

When a Portuguese Navy ship arrived here in Novemberlast year to celebrate 500 years of Goa conquest, there werepublic rallies welcoming the vessel, he said.

"In fact, there should have been protests as the shipwas a grim reminder of the arrival of Portuguese, who ruledand tortured us."

There are at least 200 villages where freedom fighterslaunched brave rebellion against the Portuguese, he said.

"We want to visit villages and places where rebelliontook place and organise functions there. The aim is to makelocals aware about the importance of these places andignite spirit of nationalism among the current generation."

If possible, local freedom fighters who participatedin the rebellion would be honoured, he said.

Veteran freedom fighter Flaviano Dias said nearly 60per cent of the freedom fighters have died. "Those who arealive would be ceremoniously brought to a pre-decided place invillages and honoured." (more) PTI RPS RSY