NT Reporter
Margao
South Goa Collector Egna Cleetus, on Tuesday directed Deputy Collectors and Sub Divisional Police Officers (SDPOs) to deploy sufficient magistrates and police personnel to ensure the smooth conduct of Eid-e-Milad celebrations, which include ‘julus’ (processions) in Cuncolim and Mormugao.
Traditionally, the Muslim community in Goa marks Eid-e-Milad with processions, with large participation across Margao and other areas. This year, festivities are scheduled for September 5.
“I have granted permission for the julus to celebrate Eid-e-Milad. The procession will take place in Cuncolim (including Margao) and Mormugao. I have directed the Deputy Collectors and SDPOs of South Goa to ensure the deployment of an adequate number of magistrates and police to ensure this festival is conducted peacefully,” Collector Cleetus said.
She said that the Deputy Collector of Mormugao had already convened a meeting with police officials and members of the Muslim community to coordinate preparations in the taluka.
On Monday, a memorandum was submitted to the collector, urging the administration to facilitate the festival without any disruption to law and order. This came after statements from some individuals within the Hindu community expressing concern over possible issues during Eid-e-Milad.
The memorandum said, “Goans have historically coexisted harmoniously, celebrating festivals together. Attempts to divide people on religious lines contradict the essence of our Goan identity. There is an alarming increase in hate speech within the state of Goa, and we therefore implore the district administration to address these concerns with urgency.”
