Say it was done to save structure in St Cajetan precinct
Protestors voicing their opposition to the transfer of Superintending Archaeologist Ramkrishna Amarnath in Old Goa on Sunday.
Photo Credits: Manuel Vaz
OLD GOA
Chiding the government for transfer of ASI superintending archaeologist (SA) Ramkrishna Amarnath, a large number of people participated in a protest denouncing the government over the move.
The protestors voiced their opposition to the transfer of the SA at a time when he was supposed to file affidavit in the SC over construction of structure within heritage precinct of St Cajetan.
The protestors initially gathered near the Gandhi Circle and later on marched to the Se Cathedral precinct where they assembled near the ASI signage where the speakers lambasted the government for transferring the SA.
During the march, the protestors shouted slogans against the government with placards in their hands.
It may be recalled that the people have conducted several protests against the construction of a structure within the heritage precincts of the Se Cathedral, for which they say various lincences have been issued in gross violations of rules and regulations.
Speaking on the occasion, Aruna Wagh said that the SA was transferred at a time when he was supposed to file an affidavit in the Supreme Court on the issue.
“A transfer happens on two counts, first in public interest or on request. And transfers normally happen in the months of April or May. But, the SA was transferred in September which goes to show that there is something dubious,” Wagh informed. “The government did not want that the SA to present the truth to the SC,” she added.
Activist Arturo D’Souza said that the SA has been transferred to Chennai on the pretext that he is sent there to complete a pending project.
“But we have found that he is working on a new project, which exposes the lies of the government,” D’Souza claimed.
“Why could the government not wait to transfer the SA and first allow him to file the affidavit in the SC?” he posed.
“The SA Amarnath went to the root of the issue to find the reality behind the structure, which is the reason why he has been transferred so that the truth is hidden,” D’Souza pointed out while coming down heavily on the government, which he said stands for corruption and distortion of facts to save their supporters.
