Vivekananda statue proposal stirs up a storm in CCP- Herald -

Vivekananda statue proposal stirs up a storm in CCP January 11, 2013 TEAM HERALD teamherald@herald-goa.com PANJIM: The Corporation of the City of Panaji called an extraordinary meeting Thursday to decide on erecting a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the Garcia de Orta (municipal garden). However, the ruling group sensing the mood of the councillors, abruptly cancelled the meeting a couple of hours before it was supposed to begin citing ‘unforeseen’ reasons. The historic city garden 'Garcia De Orta', a landmark in the capital city, along with its neighbouring Church of the Immaculate Conception was built by the Portuguese in 1855 and re-inaugurated following a facelift some years ago. Councillors reacting to the notice sent Wednesday and the proposed change, spoke to media on the issue. “Why don’t they put it in joggers park, Altinho? Then there is no problem. Also the mayor did not even bother to consult us before the meeting was called,” local councillor, Edward Jorge said while criticizing that the notice was given less than 24 hours in advance and said that it should have been given at least three days prior. According to insiders, after the proposal put forth by Swami Vivekananda Sardh Shathee Samaroh Samiti came up, the ruling group in CCP suddenly realized that it might lose the support of even its supporters and could face an embarrassing defeat, forcing them to do a rethink. “The CCP needs to pass a resolution that henceforth there will be no change in name of any of the existing areas of Panjim. In case any name has to be given, let the council put up new structures and give these new names. Mayor Vaidehi Naik could not be contacted for her comments. Incidentally the city is represented by the chief minister, Manohar Parrikar and the ruling CCP group is backed by ruling BJP. http://www.heraldgoa.in/News/Local%20News/Vivekananda-statue-proposal-stirs-up-a-storm-in-CCP/69240.html