Goa protests for removal of grounded ship

Goa, PanajiPanaji (Goa), Jan 26, : Agnelo Fernandes, Goa's Congress legislator, was arrested on Monday along with 200 other supporters for taking out a march demanding the removal of a grounded cango ship.

The cargo ship had run aground in north Goa's candolim shore in June 2000.

River Princess Hatao Manch, a non-governmental organization (NGO), has been agitating in the state demanding removal of the ship, which could cause ecological disaster due to high erosion of sand.

Protesters were arrested at Panaji''''s Ferry Wharf, almost two kilometer away from the Republic Day function venue, when they were walking with placards in hand.

According to the sub-divisional Magistrate, Sabhaji Shetye, protesters were arrested to avoid possible problems during the Republic Day parade.

Agnelo Fernandes was arrested under 151 of CrPC as they had no permission to hold a march in the city, Shetye added.

Fernandes said, "We would have sat peacefully at the parade with placards in hand. This was a peaceful silent protest."

The Republic Day function meanwhile was attended by the Governor S. S. Sidhu, Goa's chief minister Digambar Kamat and other distinguished persons. (ANI)

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