Say it's not mandated under Goa Panchayat Raj Act
MAPUSA
A group of concerned residents of Calangute have urged the local panchayat to drop the requirement for No Objection Certificates (NOCs) or undertakings from voters or ward members as a pre-condition for the renewal of trade licences, particularly for cottage industries like guest houses and homestays.
In a petition submitted to the panchayat, the villagers argued that the rule lacks legal backing and is not mandated under the Goa Panchayat Raj Act or related licensing regulations.
“We appreciate the panchayat’s efforts to maintain order in the village, but this requirement is unnecessary, burdensome and creates scope for discretion and personal bias,” the petition stated.
The Calangute panchayat had recently issued a public notice informing business owners that renewals of all trade and establishment licences were underway. Licence holders were instructed to approach the panchayat office with necessary legal documents, including approved building plans, construction licences, and occupancy certificates.
However, the added condition of obtaining NOCs from ward members has raised alarm among local entrepreneurs and residents.
In their detailed representation, the villagers pointed out that existing provisions for trade licences do not explicitly require NOCs for renewals—particularly when there has been no change in the nature of the business and no complaints against the establishment.
They warned that such a requirement could open the door to discretion and disputes, allowing space for personal biases, local politics, and arbitrary objections that could potentially infringe on the rights of law-abiding business owners.
The petitioners also expressed concern over the broader impact on the local economy, emphasising that guest houses and homestays form a vital part of Calangute’s tourism sector. “Unwarranted bureaucratic hurdles discourage legitimate entrepreneurs,” the residents noted, urging the panchayat to eliminate the NOC requirement unless specifically warranted by legal or zoning violations.
