MAPUSA
The illegal demolition of the Agarwadekar family home has sparked a groundswell of support from politicians, activists, social workers, and civil groups.
The community has united in condemning the act and demanding justice for the affected family.
Local Siolim MLA Delilah Lobo and Calangute MLA Michael Lobo were among the first to voice their outrage. Delilah Lobo criticised the demolition and called for the immediate arrest of the main accused, Pooja Sharma.
"Anjuna Police should arrest Pooja Sharma within the next 24 hours. If they fail to do so, I, along with the village sarpanch, panchayat members, and villagers, will sit at the Anjuna Police Station," she warned.
Calangute MLA Michael Lobo also condemned the demolition, emphasising that the due process of law was not followed.
He insisted that those responsible should rebuild the demolished house to restore the family's peace.
"When part of the house is struck with a JCB, the entire foundation must have shaken. Those involved in this unprincipled act should build a new house at the same spot," Lobo asserted.
Activist Swapnesh Sherlekar highlighted the broader implications of the incident, stating that it exemplified the State government's failure to protect local interests.
"Can Pooja Sharma commit this act without anyone’s backing? This incident is an example for other Goans who need to remain alert," Sherlekar said, describing the demolition as an attack on the Bahujan Samaj.
Social workers Rama Kankonkar, Pratima Coutinho, Shankar Polgi, Tara Kerkar and others also rallied behind the Agarwadekar family.
They condemned the government for what they perceived as support for non-Goans at the expense of local residents.
The social workers called on the government to take immediate action against the accused and to ensure justice for the Agarwadekar family.
The demolition has ignited widespread anger and concern about the rule of law in the state.
Community leaders are calling for accountability and a return to lawful processes to prevent such incidents from recurring.
The Agarwadekar family, meanwhile, continues to receive an outpouring of support from across Goa as they seek justice and the restoration of their home.
