Team Goemkarponn
MORMUGAO: Tense moments prevailed at the Vailankanni Chapel premises after officials of the Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) arrived for a demarcation exercise at the site on Tuesday, triggering strong opposition from devotees and local residents who gathered near the chapel along with the parish priest.
As news of the demarcation spread, Mormugao MLA Sankalp Amonkar rushed to the spot and held discussions with MPA officials, urging them to immediately defer the exercise in view of the sentiments attached to the religious structure.
A large number of devotees assembled near the chapel premises, with several expressing concern over the possibility of any action affecting the place of worship, which is regarded as a symbol of faith by people from different communities.
Addressing the gathering, Sankalp Amonkar strongly opposed any move that could affect the chapel property and declared that not even an inch of the land would be touched as long as he remained the MLA of the constituency.
“This chapel is not only a place of worship for Christians but for people of all religions who come here with faith. I will not allow anyone to hurt the sentiments of the people,” Amonkar said.
The MLA further stated that he had no hesitation in facing legal consequences or fresh cases from the MPA if required, but maintained that he would continue standing firmly with the people of the constituency.
“I do not mind if more cases are filed against me. My duty is to stand with the people and protect their interests at all times,” he said.
The situation at the site remained tense for some time as devotees continued to gather around the chapel premises while discussions were held with officials. Sources present at the spot said the demarcation exercise was eventually deferred following the objections raised by locals and the intervention of the MLA.
