Every year on October 17th we observe Dr Jack de Sequeira’s death anniversary and pay homage to Goa’s first Leader of Opposition. But for his then tireless efforts during that historic Opinion Poll which was held on 16th January 1967, Goa today would have been a mere district if not taluka of Maharashtra.
Dr Jack de Sequeira as the then fiery voice of the Opposition toiled with a vision and passion towards highlighting issues relating to the development of Goa. A spirited Leader of integrity, honesty and commitment.
As a school and later college student I had the privilege of interacting with Dr Jack de Sequeira many times and nostalgic are the memories of his debates that I witnessed in the Legislative Assembly. Always well prepared and ever so eloquent. Later after that 1975 State of Emergency I had the occasion of addressing many public meetings along with that great and inspiring leader.
Dr Jack de Sequeira fearlessly dared to speak from his heart and always walk the talk. It is imperative that today students in our schools and colleges are made aware of the very rich and invaluable contribution to Goa by Dr Jack de Sequeira. May his role as a statesman be remembered.