MAPUSA
The Assagao panchayat has scheduled an inspection of the controversial house that was partly demolished last month, set to take place today.
The inspection follows a notice issued under Section 82 of the Goa Panchayat Raj Act 1994 to Pooja Sharma and Pradeep Agarwadekar.
Both parties have been asked to be present at the site, House No. 102/1, at 11 am with relevant documents.
The inspection was initiated based on a complaint lodged against Pooja Sharma, accusing her of illegally demolishing the house, and objecting to the granting of any permissions to Pradeep Agarwadekar and Prishna Agarwadekar regarding the property.
The complaint was filed by local resident Desmond Alvares, RTI activist Kashinath Shetye, and Krishna Pandit of Porvorim before the Assagao panchayat and other relevant authorities.
The complainants have requested that no construction, repair, or renovation licenses be issued or renewed for Pooja Sharma, Pradeep Agarwadekar, or Prishna Agarwadekar.
Additionally, they have urged authorities to disconnect electricity and water connections to the property and to recover all charges, taxes, fees, and penalties. They also demand the demolition of any illegal constructions and the restoration of the land to its original state as soon as possible.
The controversy escalated on June 22 when around 15 bouncers entered the property with a JCB and began demolishing the house.
Prishna Agarwadekar, whose family has been residing in the house for more than 20 years, lodged a complaint against Pooja Sharma and others, accusing them of the demolition and the abduction of her husband and son.
The incident sparked a major controversy, resulting in the suspension of three police officers, including Anjuna Police Inspector Prashal Desai.
Police arrested five individuals in connection with the case, all of whom have since been released on bail.
The main accused, Pooja Sharma, has applied for anticipatory bail, and the hearing is currently underway in the Sessions Court, Panaji.
The upcoming site inspection by the panchayat is a crucial step in addressing the complaints and determining the future course of action regarding the disputed property.
The panchayat’s involvement underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the community’s demand for a thorough investigation and resolution of the matter.
