Goa Heritage Committee Challenges Official Name of Historic Pillar in Old Goa
The Save Old Goa Action Committee has formally objected to the naming of a historic pillar in Old Goa as "Hath Katro Khambo" in a recent gazette notification, labeling the designation as inaccurate and historically unsupported. The group, dedicated to preserving the cultural integrity of the region, has taken a firm stance against what it perceives as a misrepresentation of the monument's identity.
Evidence and Public Support Presented
To substantiate their claim, the committee submitted photographic evidence that clearly identifies the monument as "New Pillory" in English. Additionally, the evidence includes nameplates showing "Pilourinho Novou" in Portuguese and a Konkani equivalent, none of which correspond to the name cited in the official gazette. The group has garnered significant public backing, with hundreds of villagers signing a petition opposing the name "Haath Khatro Khamb." This widespread support underscores the community's commitment to accurate heritage preservation.
Formal Representation and Historical Context
A detailed representation has been sent to the Department of Archives and Archaeology in Goa, urging an immediate correction. The committee emphasized that the pillory is located within the UNESCO-recognised heritage precinct of Old Goa, making precision in naming not just a matter of administrative accuracy but of international cultural significance. They argue that such inaccuracies could undermine the site's historical value and global recognition.
Timing and Broader Objections
This appeal follows closely on the heels of similar objections raised nearly two weeks prior by PhD scholars and journalists, who also wrote to the department to contest the notification issued on February 17. In that notification, the disputed name appeared in the list of protected monuments, sparking concerns among academics and media professionals about the integrity of historical documentation.
Questions Raised About Naming Process
The Save Old Goa Action Committee has raised critical questions regarding the basis for adopting the contested name. They have inquired whether any proper site survey or historical validation was conducted before the gazette's publication. The committee is demanding full disclosure of the source of the nomenclature and all related documentation, highlighting a lack of transparency in the decision-making process.
Call for Immediate Action
In their urgent plea, the committee has called for authorities to amend the gazette notification promptly and restore what they consider the monument's historically accurate name. They stress that official records must align with documented heritage preserved in government archives to ensure consistency and authenticity. This move aims to prevent future discrepancies and uphold the legacy of Old Goa's rich cultural landscape.
The ongoing dispute highlights the broader challenges in balancing administrative procedures with historical accuracy, particularly in regions with UNESCO heritage status. As the committee awaits a response, the outcome could set a precedent for how similar issues are handled in heritage conservation efforts across India.
