Probe ordered into ‘purification’ of place where Manohar Parrikar's body was kept

The Goa government has ordered probe into the reports that the state-run Kala Academy in Panaji conducted a "purification ritual" of the place where former chief minister Manohar Parrikar's body was kept before last rites. Goa Art and Culture Minister Govind Gawade said an inquiry has been ordered after a section of media reported that a “purification ritual” was performed inside the Kala Academy premises where Parrikar’s mortal remains were kept.

Taking a strong note of the unscientific activity, Gawade said such things will not be promoted in government buildings. "I have taken a strong note of these activities.... We cannot promote or patronise unscientific activities in government buildings," he said.

The former Goa chief minister died last Sunday after battling pancreatic cancer for over a year. He was cremated with state honours Monday with thousands bidding the affable politician a fond farewell.

BJP president Amit Shah, some Union ministers and chief ministers of BJP-ruled states attended the funeral at Miramar. The funeral procession started from the Kala Academy where thousands, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid their last respects to the former defense minister.

(With inputs from agencies)