MARGAO: While the great parliamentarian and historian Dr Francis Luis Gomes is remembered every year, sadly his huge ancestral mansion in Colmorod-Navelim lies in a state of despair and on the verge of collapse. The incessant downpour lashing the State has only made matters worse for the heritage structure.
Consequently, concerned individuals have urged the government to initiate steps to preserve it, resolving any issues related to the land ownership in the process.
However, on Monday, following the assessment of the state of Dr Gomes' house, the district administration has been instructed to investigate the situation and take necessary measures.
Dr Gomes was a polymath, serving as a physician, writer, historian, economist and Member of Parliament in the Portuguese parliament.
According to Margao MLA Digambar Kamat, the aforementioned land is privately owned and embroiled in a dispute, posing obstacles to its preservation efforts.
Dr Gomes, renowned internationally for his intellect and scholarly achievements, once resided in this now dilapidated house. One section of the house is on the brink of collapse, while the other side is currently inhabited by a single family. Heavy rains have once again brought Dr Gomes' house into discussion.
Speaking to reporters, Savio Coutinho, Congress leader, informed that for decades they have been shouting hoarse over the need to save and preserve the house of Dr Gomes.
"Our efforts to acquire the house and land in 2009 were also sabotaged by political leaders. The reason for his reluctance to take any steps towards saving this piece of history is evident in the helplessness," he stated.
He further said that the political leaders need to explain to the public how the zone of this land got converted to the commercial zone.
"Now, at least the government must take serious note of the issue and initiate steps to preserve the house of Dr Gomes," urged Coutinho.
Meanwhile, Margao MLA Digambar Kamat also inspected the collapsed portion of Dr Gomes' house and deliberated on the issue with the concerned parties.
"I have informed the Mamlatdar about the issue regarding Dr Gomes' house. The damaged portion will be repaired after completing the necessary procedures," he stated.
He further stated that if this house is to be preserved, the site will have to be acquired.
"There is a dispute between the landowners regarding this land, and there are many legal difficulties in its acquisition," said Kamat.