New Delhi, Dec 19 (NationPress) On the occasion of Goa Liberation Day, President Droupadi Murmu took the lead in honoring the courageous individuals who fought tirelessly to free Goa from colonial oppression. She expressed profound respect for the freedom fighters whose sacrifices played a pivotal role in integrating the state with India.

President Murmu shared her sentiments on the social media platform X, stating, “Today, as we observe Goa Liberation Day, we express our heartfelt gratitude towards the brave individuals who fought resolutely against colonial rule. We extend our salutes to our freedom fighters and armed forces for their steadfast commitment. I wish the citizens of Goa a future filled with prosperity and brightness.”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also conveyed his wishes for the day, mentioning on X, “Warm greetings to the people of Goa on this significant occasion. Many are unaware that until 1961, Indians required permission to visit Goa. Numerous revered figures like Prabhakar Vaidya, Bala Raya Mapari, Nanaji Deshmukh Ji, and Jagannath Rao Joshi Ji resisted this and championed Goa's freedom. Due to the immense sacrifices of our heroes, Goa became an inseparable part of India. I bow in gratitude to these noble souls who endured great suffering for Goa’s liberation.”

The Congress party commemorated the day as well, posting on X, “Goa, Daman & Diu Liberation Day signifies a crucial moment when these regions were liberated from Portuguese dominion. It honors the valor of our freedom fighters and the collective determination of Indians that led to their integration into the Indian Union.”

The date December 19 carries great historical importance for Goa, marking the day in 1961 when the region was liberated from Portuguese rule and formally joined India. Notably, Portuguese governance in Goa extended for almost 451 years, making it one of the longest colonial reigns in the nation.

In contrast to other regions of India that achieved independence from British rule in 1947, Portugal resisted granting freedom to Goa or permitting its unification with India. The Portuguese authorities maintained that Goa was culturally and religiously unique and an inherent part of Portugal, rather than merely a colony.

To conclude colonial rule, the Indian government initiated 'Operation Vijay' during the leadership of former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. This military operation, executed by the Indian Armed Forces, lasted over 36 hours and involved synchronized efforts across land, sea, and air.

Numerous leaders and citizens actively participated in the liberation movement through protests against Portuguese governance. Among them, T.B. Cunha is celebrated as the “Father of Goan Nationalism,” having spearheaded the first organized resistance against colonial rule in Goa. After completing his studies in France, Cunha returned to India during Mahatma Gandhi’s mass movements against imperialism and dedicated himself to the cause of Goa’s independence.