Team Goemkarponn
MARGAO: The Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Margao has ordered the continuation of the sealing of the Sunni Gulistan Masjid premises at the Gogol Housing Board for an additional seven days, extending the restriction until February 7 or until further instructions are issued.
As per the order, entry into or exit from the premises will remain prohibited during this period unless prior written approval is obtained from the Officer-in-Charge of the Fatorda Police Station or any official authorised by him. The SDM has also clarified that if any essential religious ritual needs to be conducted within the premises, advance written permission must be sought from the SDM or an officer authorised for the purpose.
The administration stated that the situation will be closely monitored on the basis of inputs from the local police and other relevant agencies. Further directions will be issued if required, strictly in accordance with the law.
The masjid was initially sealed following an order issued on January 30, in the aftermath of a murder that occurred after Friday prayers, which led to concerns over the prevailing law and order situation in the area.
According to the SDM, the decision to extend the sealing was taken after receiving fresh reports from police authorities indicating that the conditions which prompted the preventive action still persist. “After carefully assessing the facts and circumstances, it has been deemed necessary, in the interest of public safety and maintenance of public order, to continue the preventive measure until the next review,” the SDM stated.
