MARGAO
Taking note of the observation made by the Salcete Block Development Officer that the Curtorim Village Panchayat was allegedly “remiss in duty” in connection with the housing project, villagers have now demanded action against the outgoing sarpanch and the panchayat secretary, as deemed proper, for being remiss in their duties.
In the complaint, the residents pointed out that the Village Panchayat of Curtorim has failed to discharge its statutory duties in a fair, transparent and participatory manner. “The finding recorded by your office that the Panchayat was 'remiss in duty' is not only justified but also requires further consequential action,” the complaint stated.
Hence, the residents have requested the BDO to initiate departmental and administrative action against the outgoing sarpanch, the panchayat member representing Ward No. 5, and the panchayat secretary for what they termed their acts of omission and commission.
“We request you to initiate appropriate proceedings including, but not limited to, calling for an explanation, recommending disciplinary action, and ensuring that such non-transparent functioning does not recur in the future,” the complaint stated.
Meanwhile, local residents of Maina, led by ex-Curtorim ZP members Moreno Rebello and Michele Rebello, made their presence felt again outside the office of the Additional Director of Panchayats for a hearing on the housing project scheduled on Wednesday.
The matter, however, was adjourned since the presiding officer, Joao Fernandes, was not in office. A posse of policemen was deployed outside the Additional Director of Panchayats' office today.
Moreno told the media that this is the fifth time that the residents of Maina have come to the office of the Additional Director of Panchayats, but lamented that no hearing could take place for want of the presiding officer.
He said the residents also called on the Salcete BDO, Nimisha Fal Dessai, and submitted a complaint to initiate action against the outgoing Sarpanch and the Panchayat secretary in view of the BDO’s observation that the panchayat was remiss in duty in connection with the controversial housing project.
