The construction of the Heritage Interpretation Centre in Old Goa has sparked protests of discontent among locals. Over ten days of escalating unease finally found echoes in the Legislative Assembly session prompting Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte to assure that no work would proceed without fresh clearance from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Church authorities. However, the timing and nature of this clarification raise critical questions about the communication process and accountability in governance.
Why did it take so long for the government to respond decisively when there was so much unease? Voices from Old Goa, fearing the emergence of what they perceived as a “mall” at a UNESCO heritage site, were seeking clarity and reassurance at a time when ground clearance work had begun. The hesitation of the department in offering transparent communication only served to amplify speculation and mistrust.
The disconnect becomes even more glaring if one considers the contradictory statements of ministers. While TCP Minister Vishwajit Rane claimed that no permissions had been granted, Khaunte asserted that his department had indeed received all necessary approvals. Add to this the statement emerging from the Se Old Goa Panchayat on Tuesday that it has not received any file for approval. Such conflicting narratives create a fog of uncertainty and disillusionment among the people, undermining their confidence in the system.
Minister Khaunte’s statements during the assembly did, however, exhibit a sense of translucence. His promise that the project would not progress without explicit clearance from the ASI and Church is welcome and settles allegations of state imposition. Furthermore, as Khaunte noted, misinformation can foment unnecessary panic, an assertion that resonates in a climate where citizens are hyper-aware of their cultural heritage's fragility. Since these heritage sites are steeped in spiritual and historical essence, the government must tread carefully in their management to ensure citizens feel their voices matter.
Balancing development and conservation is crucial to Goa, which has witnessed development at a breezy pace, especially since land, environment, and heritage are exquisitely intertwined. The absence of clarity regarding whether the heritage centre site falls within the prohibited zone exacerbates these challenges. The Save Old Goa Action Committee (SOGAC) has rightly called for comprehensive assessments, insisting that no development should commence until a robust Master Plan is in place to govern heritage zones.
The Old Goa situation reminds us yet again of how transparency is crucial in sensitive projects. From introducing additional railway stations to tourism-related developments, transparency can foster community trust and lessen opposition. A fractured relationship between the state and its citizens, as reflected in this situation, illustrates the dire need for a cohesive dialogue to bridge gaps of understanding. In his remarks, Khaunte highlighted the Rs 300 crore spent on projects around Old Goa without facing opposition at the time of the Exposition.
To rebuild shattered trust, policymakers must adopt a proactive stance, establishing channels for consistent, clear dialogue with communities about development initiatives. Engaging citizens not just as stakeholders but as partners in the conservation narrative will be vital as Goa navigates the complex space of heritage preservation in an era of modern development. Let the construction of the Heritage Interpretation Centre become an exemplary unifier rather than a catalyst for division.
