However, the combination of Jesuit pressure and then also that of the Goan Padroados, who came to agree that the ritual role of the "jati" was detrimental to belief, caused the gradual erosion of the "jati's" powers of patronage and organisation. This situation was assisted by the growing number of people aspiring to be members of the elite and those who disputed the validity of the succession as a consequence of the female lineage. The ceremonial role of the "jati" in religious observance and ceremony was gradually reduced, including the removal of status symbols such as the special seat that he occupied for Mass, and with these actions went much of his influence over the caste. By 1900 there were strikes taking place among the pearl and chank divers, often for frivolous reasons; the "jati" was unable to impose the discipline upon them which once had been a primary role.