MAPUSA
Calangute deputy sarpanch Joseph Sequeira has lashed out at the local MLA Michael Lobo for carrying out demolitions without following proper procedures, but admitted that there were a lot of illegalities in Calangute.
The deputy sarpanch admitted that over 150 cases of illegal constructions were pending in appeal before the Directorate of Panchayats and the Calangute panchayat was following up the matter.
“I don’t deny the fact that there aren't any illegalities in Calangute. Such illegal constructions or extensions occur in every panchayat and municipality. What I am saying is, follow proper procedures while taking action on illegal structures,” Sequeira maintained.
In his typical style, the deputy sarpanch hit out at his bête noire and local MLA Michael Lobo, stating that the local MLA had no respect for law and went about with his demolition act throwing all caution to the winds.
“The local MLA has lost credibility and respect of the people for forcing JCBs on people’s compound walls and structures without following proper procedure,” he said. “In fact, people are scared of the MLA because he’s using official machinery to achieve his end,” he added.
He said when the local panchayat was trying to develop the area from Calangute Tinto to the beach by widening the road and constructing the footpaths, then chief minister Manohar Parrikar had stopped the work by imposing Section 144.
“Now, the same work is being undertaken by the Calangute MLA. Why was it disallowed then?” he questioned.
However, he said he would not interfere in the development, as it benefits the constituency and the local people.
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40% illegalities will be cleared in current drive: MLA
THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
Justifying the demolition drive being undertaken in Calangute, North Goa Planning and Development Authority (NGPDA) chairman and Calangute MLA Michael Lobo on Tuesday said the decision to clear illegal structures was taken at the monthly meeting of the NGPDA, adding that it did not require notice.
“In the monthly meetings of the NGPDA, it was decided to clear illegal extensions/structures falling under footpaths and parking areas. We don’t need to send notices to clear these illegal structures,” Lobo said.
“It’s only when big structures or entire structures are to be demolished, then we need to send notices to the party concerned,” he added, while reacting to allegations made by deputy sarpanch Joseph Sequeira.
He said NGPDA was clearing all illegalities falling under the planning areas.
“In another two months, at least 40 per cent of the illegalities in Calangute will be cleared in the current drive,” he added.
Reacting on the allegation of credibility, the local legislator said it was for the people of Calangute to decide.
“Elections are not too far away. People will get a chance to decide whom to respect or who not to,” Lobo said.
