On January 16, 1967, in a historic decision, an Opinion Poll was conducted which saw Goa choosing to keep it’s separate identity instead of merging with neighbouring Maharashtra. As Goa celebrates the anniversary as ‘Asmitai Dis’ (Identity Day), a few Goans look back at the defining moment
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Although Goa was liberated from the Portuguese rule in 1961, it did not become an immediate state at once but instead was considered a union territory. However the two political parties in Goa had opposing ideologies. While the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party wanted to merge Goa with Maharasthra, The United Goans Party was all for Goa continuing as a separate identity. It was finally decided that an Opinion Poll should be conducted to decide the fate of Goa. Thus on January 16, 1967, a referendum was held and the people of Goa voted against the merger and Goa continued to be a union territory. Ultimately, in 1987, Goa became a full-fledged state of the Republic of India. A few Goans recall their memories of the atmosphere at that time:
