Claims draft favours ruling group

A group of Quepem citizens alleged that the draft has been prepared in violation of norms.
MARGAO
Quepem MLA Alton D’Costa and a group of citizens have raised concerns over the ward delimitation exercise carried out by election officials, calling it an attempt to favour the ruling group.
Speaking to the media, the MLA said officials are required to carry out the delimitation as per laid-down guidelines, including maintaining geographical contiguity of areas. However, he alleged that the norms have been ignored and the draft delimitation has been prepared to suit vested interests ahead of the upcoming municipal polls.
“It is clear that the draft ward delimitation is tailored to benefit vested interests in the ruling party. This is an attempt to win the election through unfair means,” he said, while demanding that the process be carried out in a transparent manner.
When asked if he and the citizens’ group would approach the court, D’Costa said he is currently campaigning for the Congress candidate in the Ponda by-election. “We will decide our next course of action after the by-election,” he added.
Meanwhile, a group of Quepem citizens also criticised the exercise, alleging that the draft has been prepared in violation of norms, including geographical contiguity.