MARGAO
Margao police shut down the Margao Municipal New Market on Tuesday after traders opened their shops to sell rainwear, plastic and grocery.
Sympathizing with the plight of the traders, MMC Chief Officer Agnelo Fernandes has dashed off a letter to the South Goa District Collector, Ruchika Katyal, seeking guidance on whether the New Market can be opened for specific hours in the morning session.
A posse of Margao policemen descended on the New Market on Tuesday morning after receiving information that many shops had opened their shutters.
The police questioned the President of the New Market Traders Association Vinod Shirodkar for opening the shops when the Collector’s order has shut all markets in the municipal and panchayat areas under section 144 of the Cr PC.
Shirodkar explained to the men-in-uniform shops were opened after seeking permission from the MMC CO only to sell plastic items and rainwear. He pointed out that the traders will suffer huge losses if these items were not sold before the rains.
He pointed out that illegal sale of plastic and rainwear was taking place outside the market.
After the police verified with the superiors and the MMC authorities, the market was shut down. The traders were explained that the Collector’s order stands.
Meanwhile, MMC CO has sympathized with the traders, saying the they will suffer huge losses if the plastic items and rainwear are not sold before the monsoons.
“I have written a letter to the Collector seeking guidance on the matter. I am awaiting instructions from the Collector’s office,” he added.
...Ensure Gandhi Market stays closed
MARGAO: After being caught napping on Monday, the Margao police descended on the Gandhi market early Tuesday morning to ensure it remains closed as per the Collector’s order.
Unlike Monday, when the vegetable business in the market remained open till 11 am, it was found closed in the morning after a posse of policemen made their presence felt.
Margao Sub-divisional Police Officer, DySP Harish Madkaikar and acting Margao police station in-charge, PI Vaigankar, ensure the all markets remained shut.
