Margao
South Goa Communidades Forum has drawn the attention of South Goa District Collector Egna Cleetus to the memorandum issued by the Collector of North Goa District regarding the implementation of measures as per the Supreme Court’s judgment in Civil Appeal No. 1132/2011 @ SLP (C) No. 3109/2011 (Jagpal Singh and Ors. v. State of Punjab and Ors.).
While attaching a copy of the memorandum for the Collector’s reference, Forum Secretary Savio Correia pointed out that the North Goa District memorandum directs all concerned officials to take action for the removal of illegal and unauthorised dwellings on Comunidade and Government land, in accordance with the provisions of the Goa Land Revenue Code 1968 and the Goa Land (Prohibition on Construction) Act, 1995.
He said the memorandum also establishes a monthly reporting mechanism to monitor implementation progress. Since the Supreme Court judgment is applicable throughout India, the Forum has requested the South Goa Collector to consider issuing similar directions for the South Goa District.
Drawing the attention of the District Collector to the recent judgment of the Supreme Court in Rajendra Kumar Barjatiya vs. UP Avas Evam Vikas Parishad (Civil Appeal No. 14605/2024), Correia said the Apex Court in this case has directed strict adherence to land use and construction regulations, emphasising the demolition of unauthorised constructions.
“The Court has mandated action against erring officials, prompt cooperation among departments, and outlined a procedural framework for demolition, including notices, hearings, and accountability mechanisms, while rejecting claims of estoppel or acquiescence,” he added.
