PANAJI: The demolition of the unauthorised shed of ‘Mormugao Cha Raja’ at Headland-Sada was deferred on Friday amid concerns over a possible law-and-order situation after some people threatened to self-immolate.
A large crowd of residents, devotees and local community members gathered at the site as authorities moved to implement the High Court’s direction to demolish the structure. The court had earlier declined to stay its demolition, rejecting a plea by residents to defer the action until after the Ganesh Chaturthi festivities.
The Mamlatdar said authorities tried to pacify the residents and prevent them from obstructing police and municipal officials. “We tried to pacify the residents not to obstruct police personnel and municipality staff from doing their work, but people’s sentiments were being hurt,” said Mamlatdar
According to the Mamlatdar, the High Court had directed the Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) Chief Officer (CO) to remain present at the site during the demolition. However, the CO was hospitalised and had deputed subordinate staff to the spot.
The Mamlatdar said the demolition was therefore adjourned to avoid allegations that the court order was being implemented without the presence of the CO and to prevent any escalation of the situation.
The dispute dates back to March 28, 2011, when the High Court directed the MMC Chief Officer to demolish the structure after holding that it had been illegally erected on Mormugao Port Authority property.
The High Court had set a deadline to demolish the structureby August 28 and disconnect its electricity supply within three days. High Courtfurther directed CO to remain personally present before the Bench on September1 for failure to comply with the directions.
