MAPUSA
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Tuesday assured the Goa Legislative Assembly that the government will review the recent High Court order on illegal constructions, along with the memorandum issued by the Directorate of Panchayats, before making a statement on the matter.
The assurance came in response to concerns raised by Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao, who highlighted the memorandum sent by the Directorate of Panchayats to various panchayat secretaries across the State.
Alemao emphasised that the issue had caused confusion and panic among residents, particularly those living in areas with disputed land records.
“Houses of the people are at risk. People are confused, and the Chief Minister must make a statement in the House,” Alemao urged at the beginning of the Question Hour.
The High Court had recently directed authorities to take strict action against illegal constructions across the State, citing the need to protect Goa’s fragile ecosystem.
The ruling mandated all the local bodies including panchayats and municipalities to inspect roadways, highways and other major roads within their jurisdiction and submit reports on illegal structures within four weeks.
In response, the Directorate of Panchayats instructed village panchayats secretaries to take phased action against illegal constructions.
As part of the compliance process, the government has initiated a survey to identify such structures, leading to uncertainty among local governing bodies and anxiety among affected residents. The issue remains a significant concern, particularly in areas where land records are incomplete or disputed.
The government is expected to take a considered approach in addressing the matter, balancing the need for environmental protection with the interests of affected residents.
