MAPUSA
Illegal and unauthorized constructions on comunidade and government land in the State have once again come under scrutiny, potentially placing the administration and government in a challenging position.
In a move that could have far-reaching implications, an active citizen of Verla-Canca, Atmaram Gadekar has written to the Chief Secretary of Goa, Dr V Candavelou (IAS) to take immediate action against illegal and unauthorized constructions on comunidade and government land in the State.
Gadekar has based his appeal on the Supreme Court's order in Civil Appeal No. 1132/2011 @ SLP (C) No. 3109/2011. In his letter, Gadekar pointed out that a 2011 affidavit submitted by the then Chief Secretary, Sanjay K Srivastava, had committed the State to implementing stringent measures against such encroachments.
The affidavit, dated July 23, 2011, assured the Supreme Court that the Goa government would address the issue of illegal constructions and slum dwellings on comunidade and government lands. However, Gadekar noted that no tangible action has been taken since, allowing the problem to persist and worsen over the years.
During a meeting on July 7, 2011, at the Chief Secretary’s conference hall in Porvorim, officials discussed the Supreme Court’s directive to act against unauthorized encroachments. Despite assurances at the time, Gadekar expressed disappointment over the State government’s failure to enforce the court's directive.
“This prolonged inaction not only violates the Supreme Court's orders but also encourages further encroachments, causing environmental degradation and social unrest,” Gadekar stated. He emphasized that the delay in taking decisive action undermines the rule of law and the welfare of citizens.
Gadekar highlighted his complaint dated October 3, 2024, addressed to the Chief Secretary regarding illegal constructions, which was also forwarded to the Directorate of Comunidade Administration (DCA) and the Collector of North Goa on October 18, 2024. Despite these efforts, no action has been taken so far.
In his recent communication, Gadekar has demanded the Chief Secretary act within 30 days to remove all illegal structures on comunidade and government land and hold negligent officials accountable. Failing this, he warned he would file a contempt petition in the Supreme Court.
Gadekar also noted that illegal encroachments are not limited to Goa but are prevalent across the country, often involving influential individuals colluding with local authorities to exploit communal lands for personal gain. He called for strict enforcement of laws to protect communal lands and uphold the judiciary’s directive that illegal activities must not be tolerated.
The citizen activist stressed the importance of removing illegal structures to restore the integrity of comunidade lands, safeguard the environment and ensure the welfare of the community. He warned that failing to act decisively would perpetuate injustices and undermine the rights of citizens, particularly in rural areas.
