SANGUEM
An inspection of a food processing unit at Mollem by panchayat authorities could not be carried out after the factory owner reportedly refused to allow complainants to enter the premises along with officials, forcing the team to return without completing the exercise.
According to sources, panchayat authorities, accompanied by uniformed personnel, had arrived at the unit following complaints from local villagers.
However, the owner insisted that while government officials were welcome to carry out the inspection, the complainants would not be allowed entry under any circumstances unless there was a written directive from the Block Development Officer (BDO) permitting their presence.
The owner reportedly repeated his stand several times, stating that he had no objection to officials entering the premises and doing their duty, but maintained that complainants could only be allowed inside with a formal written order from the BDO.
In view of the standoff, the inspection was later cancelled.
The development comes amid an ongoing protest by villagers, who have been agitating outside the factory for over 10 days, demanding its immediate closure.
Residents have alleged that a foul smell from the unit has made daily life difficult and raised concerns about environmental and health impacts.
The factory owner, however, has claimed that all required permissions have been obtained from the authorities and argued that shutting down the unit based on complaints would be unfair, especially considering the substantial investment made in the project.
