Says transport verification docs misused by outsiders; vows action on dual number plates
PANAJI
The State government is set to issue new guidelines restricting the use of ‘leave and licence’ agreements in the transportation sector exclusively to Goan residents.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced the move on Wednesday after a meeting with representatives of the Pernem-Bardez Truck Association, who had raised concerns about unfair competition and regulatory violations.
Sawant clarified that only individuals residing in Goa will be permitted to provide “leave and licence” documents, which are commonly used for verification in transport and labour-related processes.
He stressed that commercial vehicles such as trucks and taxis should not be allowed to use these agreements to claim local benefits.
“The intention is clear – government schemes and permissions must benefit Goans first,” Sawant said, adding that misuse of such documents by non-residents has created loopholes in enforcement and undermined local livelihoods.
A circular detailing the new rules will be issued shortly, laying down clear eligibility criteria for submission of these documents.
The Chief Minister also announced that the government will initiate strict action against vehicles operating with dual number plates, a practice flagged by transport stakeholders as a way to bypass regulations.
“We will not tolerate violations that affect the interests of Goan transport operators,” he asserted.
The Pernem-Bardez Truck Association welcomed the announcement, stating that the misuse of verification documents and dual registration practices had long been a source of unfair competition.
Once the circular is issued and enforced, stakeholders expect tightening of regulatory oversight to ensure benefits intended for locals are not hogged by others.
