Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji
Panaji, Jul 21: Thousands of mourners gathered on Monday to bid a tearful farewell to Taleigao MLA Jennifer Monserrate, whose last rites were performed with full State honours at the St Inez crematorium in accordance with her final wish to be cremated following Hindu traditions.
An outpouring of grief marked the three-time legislator's final journey as residents, supporters, political leaders and well-wishers paid their last respects to a leader remembered for her accessibility, compassion and commitment to public service.
From early morning, a steady stream of mourners visited her residence in Taleigao, where her mortal remains were kept for public homage. People queued for hours to pay their respects before her body was later taken to St Michael's Church, Taleigao, where members of the public offered floral tributes and attended a prayer service.
Draped in the Tricolour, her mortal remains were then taken in a flower-decked hearse from the church to the St Inez crematorium for the final rites.
Family members, including her husband and Revenue Minister Babush Monserrate, sons Rohit and Amit, and other relatives, received mourners throughout the day. Babush was visibly emotional as he paid his final respects to his wife during the funeral procession.
Several dignitaries cutting across party lines attended the funeral, reflecting the respect Jennifer Monserrate commanded across the political spectrum.
Among those who paid homage were Goa Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Tamil Nadu and Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, ministers, Members of Parliament, MLAs, former legislators, Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) councillors, Taleigao panchayat members, senior government officials, businesspersons and representatives of various organisations.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, BJP Goa president Damodar Naik and several other leaders helped carry the bier before handing it over to Babush Monserrate and their son for the final journey.
At the St Inez crematorium, the State accorded full honours to the departed legislator, with police personnel presenting a ceremonial guard of honour before the last rites. Babush Monserrate, along with his sons and other family members, lit the funeral pyre in keeping with Hindu customs.
Speaking during the prayer service, an emotional Babush Monserrate said Jennifer's values and dedication to the people would continue to inspire generations.
"She is no longer physically with us. Her values, her love, her smile and her spirit will forever remain in our hearts and in the hearts of the people she loved and served. Today, I know that not only our family, but the people of Taleigao feel this loss deeply. Many have lost a person they admired, a trusted friend and a kind-hearted human being who genuinely cared for them. Her absence will be felt for years to come, but her legacy of love, compassion, humility and selfless service will continue to inspire us all," he said.
Many supporters broke down as the funeral pyre was lit, bringing to a close the life of a leader whose close connect with the people of Taleigao earned her widespread affection across communities. Her final journey reflected both the State's recognition of her public service and the deep personal bond she shared with thousands of constituents and well-wishers.