Goa MoI protests escalate, several arrested

Panaji (Goa): Several freedom fighters and activists were arrested across the state today on Goa Revolution Day as protests against English as the Medium of Instruction (MOI) turned tense and louder.

While 100 people including award-winning writers, theatre artists, youths and even a former IAS officer were arrested in here near Azad Maidan, where the Governor and chief minister addressed the state function, around 50 people including dozen of freedom fighters were arrested in Margao town.

The protests have erupted across the state against government's decision to recognise English as MOI.

Chief minister Mr Digambar Kamat was today booed during his speech by protesters, freedom fighters' association office bearers, outside the Azad Maidan, even as several other freedom fighters were felicitated during the function for their contribution for liberation of Goa.

As protests became louder, several activists were arrested by police and taken to nearby Agassaim and Porvorim police stations.

In south Goa's Margao town, 50 people including more than 10 freedom fighters were arrested by police when they agitated outside the Lohia Maidan, from where freedom fighter Ram Manohar Lohia gave a clarion call to the people of the state to oppose the oppressive policies of the colonialists in Goa in 1946, on this day.

The police action on Goa Revolution Day was strongly condemned. “This is shameful that bunch of politicians are governing the state without being concerned about sentiments of people. Its only because of our struggle that Goa is liberated now, and these politicians including chief minister are enjoying the fruits,” Mr Naguesh Karmali, president, All Goa Freedom Fighters Association, said.

Source: The Statesman

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