Panaji (Goa) : ‘Haat Kataro Khaamb’ in old Goa is a symbol of Goans who sacrificed their life to maintain their self-respect. It is a memorial in the form of a pillar and should be preserved as historical monument,’ was the demand made by Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) to the Chief Minister of Goa, Manohar Parrikar, through a representation.
It has been stated in the representation that ‘Haat Kataro Khaamb’ has been standing even today as a witness to the severe atrocities meted out to Goan Hindus by Portuguese rulers; but its condition is very bad. Two bolts of this ‘khamb’ have been stolen; there is no fencing around this pillar; nor is there any board which explains the importance of the pillar. ‘Haat Kataro Khaamb’ is not a matter of shame for Goans; but it is a symbol of self-respect of Goans who sacrificed their life. HJS has also demanded in the representation that ‘Haat Kataro Khaamb’ should be preserved as historical heritage; fence should be erected around the pillar; board which can be read easily should be displayed near the pillar; the board should be prepared with the help of local historians and scholars; the Government should make arrangements for its maintenance and security; it should be included in the declared tourists’ spots of Goa; besides mentioning it on the website of Government. A copy of the representation has also been sent to Shri. Sudin Dhavalikar, the Minister of Archaelogy Department; Shri. Shripad Naik, present MP and Shri. Pratap Singh Rane, the Opposition leader.