Govt, Church approve 18 traditional vendors for Exposition

Panaji: Govt has, in principle, decided to permit 18 traditional flower and candle vendors to sell their ware at Old Goa during the Exposition of the relics of St Francis Xavier. Minister Aleixo Sequeira said although the panchayat issued passes to as many as 300 vendors, govt identified 18 who have been selling flowers, candles, and wax figures for around three decades.

“They will be permitted to set up their stalls and sell only at Bakiya property, and their movement will be restricted to only their stalls. They cannot move around as this will amount to hawking. We want to maintain the ambience and ensure that arrangements are not messed up,” Sequeira said after a meeting with Church authorities to decide on the issue.

Few places have been identified for depositing the candles and wax figures, he said, adding that the lighting of candles will not be permitted just anywhere. Some of the vendors met the chief minister, who agreed to permit them, Sequeira said.

“We have asked them to submit their photographs, and most probably, they will begin their activity from Thursday,” he added. “We have told them we are permitting this on a trial basis, and if they go against the rules, we will not hesitate to stop them.” He also said the panchayat issued the 300 passes without consulting anybody.

Convener of the Exposition Committee, Fr Henry Falcao, said the decision was taken together with the Church after deliberations. “We are not against anyone selling flowers or candles, but we don’t want the system in place so far to fall apart. The cleanliness of the area is being maintained and people are not harassed by vendors. We want this to continue,” Falcao said.

Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, and Mini Crossword.