Resolve that panchayat should file police complaint if illegality confirmed
VOICE OF THE PEOPLE: A villager puts forth his views during the gram sabha at Anjuna on Sunday.
MAPUSA
The gram sabha of the Anjuna-Caisua Panchayat on Sunday saw villagers raising serious concerns about illegal activities in the panchayat area, including alleged road widening at Kumarvaddo and the operation of a popular nightclub without proper permissions.
The meeting, chaired by Sarpanch Laxmidas Chimulkar, witnessed heated discussions after resident Pradeep Harmalkar flagged the controversial road widening work at Kumarvaddo. Responding to the query, the Sarpanch clarified that the panchayat had no role in the work.
Following a brief debate, the villagers unanimously resolved that the panchayat should file a police complaint if the road widening is confirmed to be illegal.
Another major issue raised was the alleged illegal operation of Magnes nightclub, which locals claimed was running without required permissions and disturbing residents with loud late-night music.
A villager pointed out that while the panchayat had issued a show-cause notice to the club nearly seven months ago, the establishment had failed to respond.
“What is stopping the panchayat from taking action against a club that is functioning illegally and disturbing locals?” questioned one villager. In reply, the Sarpanch said that while the panchayat had not issued an NOC, it had provided an EHN number to the club. He further stated that if the show-cause notice remained unchallenged, the panchayat would initiate further action against the club.
Other issues also came up during the gram sabha. On stray cattle, resident Sagar Bhosle sought clarity on remedial measures. The Sarpanch informed that a shelter for stray cattle would soon be constructed. He also assured that CCTV cameras would be installed at 12 identified garbage black spots by October 15 to curb illegal dumping.
On additional queries, the Sarpanch said that efforts were underway to establish a Bal Bhavan Centre and to introduce Kadamba bus services in the panchayat area.
Former deputy sarpanch Hanumant Goveakar also highlighted alleged illegal construction by a non-Goan at survey number 133/1, located within the 200-metre coastal regulation zone. The Sarpanch assured that action would be taken in the matter.
The Gram Sabha held on September 14, under the chairmanship of Sarpanch Lakshmidas Chimulkar, was a postponed session that had earlier been adjourned on August 25 due to the absence of Panchayat Secretary Rui Cardoz.
However, Cardoz remained absent once again, leading villagers to pass a resolution demanding action against him and seeking his transfer. The meeting was instead attended by the Assagao Panchayat Secretary.
