MARGAO
Raia Sarpanch Mario D’Souza on Friday blamed the panchayat secretary for obstructing development work proposed by the panchayat body. Panchayat Secretary Amrit Shakalkar, however, refuted the allegations as baseless, asserting that he is working at the Raia panchayat under the provisions of the Goa Panchayat Raj Act.
Addressing the media on Friday, the Raia Sarpanch alleged that the panchayat secretary has been obstructing development work in the village since he assumed office two months ago. He said works could not be executed due to queries raised by the secretary. The sarpanch further pointed out that daily wage women workers, who have been looking after the upkeep and maintenance of the Raia grounds, have not been paid wages for the last three months.
The secretary, however, said that he has sought advice from the Salcete BDO on certain development works following queries raised by members. As far as daily wage workers, he said the sarpanch was on leave.
