Team Goemkarponn
CANACONA: The Goa Tourism Development Corporation Ltd. (GTDCL) has withdrawn the work order issued for the beautification and renovation of Shree Mallikarjun Temple at Avem-Cotigao, bringing an end to the controversy over the selection of the contractor.
The work order, issued on July 3, 2026, had awarded the project to Allabaksh Mulla, with the renovation scheduled to begin in October 2026 and be completed within 240 days. Soon after the order was issued, objections were raised by sections of the local community, who questioned the appointment of a non-Hindu contractor and demanded that the work be re-tendered.
Responding to the growing criticism, GTDCL on Monday issued an official order withdrawing the work order. The cancellation letter, signed by the Executive Engineer (Civil-South), simply stated that the work order dated July 3 stands withdrawn, without mentioning any reason.
Amid the debate, Rajendra Dessai of the Shree Mallikarjun Devasthan at Shristhal appealed against communalising the issue. He said the faith of devotees is not affected by the religion of a contractor carrying out construction work, pointing out that temple structures are ritually sanctified after completion.
Dessai also recalled that a Muslim artisan from Colomb had traditionally crafted and tied a gold necklace around the deity of Lord Mallikarjun at the Shristhal temple, saying such examples reflect the long-standing harmony and mutual respect shared by different communities.
With the work order now cancelled, it remains to be seen whether GTDCL will issue a fresh tender for the temple renovation project.
