MARGAO
The South Goa Advocates Association (SGAA) has unanimously resolved to urge the government to call for the immediate revocation of the recently issued circular on the substantial increase in land rates.
At an extraordinary meeting held on Friday, the Association pointed out that the increased rates, used as a basis for determining stamp duty and registration charges, were implemented in an arbitrary and unjust manner, without any public consultation or opportunity for objection, impacting property owners and prospective buyers alike.
SGAA President Adv. Prasad Naik informed that the recent hike, implemented by the Government, exceeds a four to fivefold increase in the base rate of land”a significant departure from historical adjustments. "This unprecedented hike, done without public engagement, imposes an undue financial burden on individuals and businesses," stated Adv. Naik.
He noted that a government committee was only recently constituted at the end of September to review and analyse the base rates. However, within a month, new rates were published that reflect an increase of five to six times the existing base rate.
Adv. Naik questioned the transparency and rationale behind this drastic rate adjustment and emphasised that the committee tasked with revising these rates lacked adequate representation from legal and public stakeholders. "On what grounds was this monumental rate hike decided? The process appears to lack accountability," he remarked.
In addition to demanding the revocation of the current rates, the SGAA resolved to ask for the inclusion of representatives from each District Advocates Association on the government committee responsible for setting base rates for land and built-up structures. According to the SGAA, the inclusion of legal professionals would ensure a more transparent, balanced, and lawful approach to rate-setting.
"If advocates are part of the committee, it would enhance transparency and foster decisions that reflect a fair evaluation of public interests," said Adv. Prasad Naik.
The SGAA also expressed concern over recent incidents of harassment and false complaints filed against advocates, including a recent assault on Adv. Leona Barreto’s vehicle during an inspection and an FIR registered against her based on a counter-complaint. Advocates are often targeted while performing their professional duties, posing a threat to their safety and the dignity of the profession.
"Advocates, as Officers of the Court, represent and serve the judiciary. They should be afforded the same protections as judicial officers to prevent such intimidation tactics," Adv. Prasad Naik emphasised. He highlighted that the safety and independence of advocates are critical to the effective functioning of the legal system.
In light of these developments, the SGAA has resolved to make a formal representation to the State Government for the swift enactment of an Advocates Protection Act in Goa. Similar legislation has been successfully implemented in other states, providing a framework to safeguard legal professionals from undue harassment, false complaints, and threats while fulfilling their duties.
