Hindu Raksha Maha Aghadi Demands Preservation of Inquisition History in Old Goa
In a significant development following an academic's objection to the renaming of a historical pillory, Subhash Velingkar, convener of the Hindu Raksha Maha Aghadi, has issued a series of demands aimed at preserving the memory of the Portuguese Inquisition in Goa. The controversy centers on the 'Pelourinho Novo' pillory at Old Goa, recently notified as 'Hath Katro Khamb' by the directorate of archaeology.
Call for Relocation and Memorialization
Velingkar has strongly advocated for the pillory to be moved to a safe and accessible location within the Inquisition area of Old Goa. He emphasized that this structure serves as the only surviving witness to the brutal acts of the Portuguese Inquisition in the region. "Hath Katro Khamb should be in a safe place in the Inquisition area where the public can see it because it is the only witness to the Inquisition at present," Velingkar stated.
Furthermore, he demanded that the Goa government erect a grand and appropriate memorial at the site of the former 'Palace of Inquisition' to honor the victims of this dark historical period. This move, he argued, is essential for ensuring that the real history of Goa is accurately conveyed to both tourists and future generations.
Historical Sites and Excavation Demands
In addition to the pillory, Velingkar highlighted the importance of the 'bone well site,' currently occupied by the ASI museum in Old Goa. He called for immediate excavations at this location, where the bones of Goan ancestors persecuted during the Inquisition were reportedly buried in front of the Se Cathedral. "We demand that the 'bone well site' be excavated and a durable cement information board erected around it to make the place clearly visible," he asserted.
Velingkar referenced past efforts by ASI archaeologist K K Mohammed, noting that excavations were halted by the then Congress government due to objections. He criticized this decision, arguing that it hindered the uncovering of crucial historical evidence.
Controversy Over Renaming and Historical Accuracy
The renaming of the pillory to 'Hath Katro Khamb' has sparked objections from certain historians, a point Velingkar emphasized in his appeal. He defended the name change, stating that the pillory stands as the sole remaining testament to the demonic acts committed by the Portuguese and clergy through the Inquisition in Old Goa. "We appeal to the Goa government to immediately accept these demands so that the real history of Goa is known," he urged, stressing the need for transparency and education.
Velingkar's demands underscore a broader push for acknowledging and memorializing the victims of the Portuguese Inquisition, ensuring their stories are not lost to time. The Hindu Raksha Maha Aghadi's stance highlights ongoing tensions between historical preservation, cultural identity, and governmental action in Goa.
