http://oheraldo.in/node/9154
Dr Jose Foundation launched BY HERALD REPORTER PANJIM, JAN 30 — Dr Jose Francisco Martins Memorial Foundation was launched at a function held at Azad Maidan, here today. Presiding over the function, veteran freedom fighter Vasant Molio said Dr Martins not only valiantly fought for Goa's freedom from the Portuguese rule but also played a crucial role in the historic Opinion Poll which helped Goa maintain its identity. Besides, he said Dr Martins was a pioneer in the field of education. With a view to reach out to the rural masses, he started a school at Paitona, Salvador-do-Mundo, Mr Molio said. He lamented that the sacrifices of hundreds of Goans who contributed much to uphold the cause of Goa and Goans have been forgotten. Mr Molio said the freedom fighters had a dream of heralding in a new society but that didn't materialize as the Congress couldn't win a single seat in the first assembly elections held in Goa. He mentioned that the role of Purshottam Kakodkar and a group of 60 persons in convincing the Congress Working Committee (CWC) for Opinion Poll also seems to have been forgotten. Mr Molio also stated that then Karnataka government went out of its way to support Goans who opposed merger with Maharashstra. He hoped that Dr J F Martins Memorial Foundation will carry forward the message and principles the veteran freedom fighter stood for. Stressing the need to correct the history of Goa's freedom struggle, he said the Foundation should start this work. Advocate Avinash Bhonsle said Dr Martins was a political martyr the Congress party for which he worked tirelessly never gave his due other than its usual promises. Datta S Naik, freedom fighter Alvaro Pereira and Vinayak Naik also spoke. Umesh Mahambre compered the function. -- Salaam ali kum. Gabe Menezes. London, England
