MAPUSA
Amidst allegations from Opposition MLAs that the Administrator of Comunidade, South Zone frequently disappears and occasionally arrives at the office intoxicated, Revenue Minister Atanasio (Babush) Monserrate assured the Goa Legislative Assembly that a full-time administrator would be appointed to improve efficiency and address concerns over the current officer’s absenteeism.
Monserrate acknowledged that the current administrator, holding an additional charge, was unable to fully commit to the role. “A full-time administrator will be appointed in South Goa Comunidade who will be more efficient,” he stated.
The assurance came in response to concerns raised by members of the House about the habitual absenteeism of the incumbent administrator, which has led to a lack of supervision of staff and significant delays in official work.
Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas highlighted the delays in office procedures and the neglect of files related to illegal constructions due to the administrator’s absence.
He specifically mentioned the delay in forwarding demolition orders for an illegal structure at Mungul Margao under the Margao Comunidade to the demolition squad.
Viegas pointed out that a convention of the comunidade held in South Goa had suggested several steps for smoother functioning, yet no action had been taken by the government.
He also demanded that the Mungul demolition be completed before the end of the assembly session and called for the government to pay the salaries of the staff.
Aldona MLA Carlos Ferreira described the situation as “very sad,” noting that the administrator often does not come to the office. “I have heard sometimes the administrator is not in the condition to come to the office,” Ferreira said, suggesting the reasons for the absence were evident to everyone.
He emphasised the need for a full-time officer to supervise the staff and ensure proper functioning.
Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai echoed these concerns, suggesting that the administrator’s lack of control over the staff and his condition, implying intoxication, were central issues. “He is often absent and when he comes ‘tho full asta’ (he’s intoxicated),” Sardesai said.
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao and St Andre MLA Viresh Borkar also participated in the debate, underscoring the need for immediate action to ensure the efficient operation of the Comunidades South Zone.
Monserrate’s commitment to appoint a dedicated administrator aims to address these concerns and enhance the overall functioning of the comunidade.
CM orders suspension of administrator
MAPUSA: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant issued an immediate directive on Thursday to suspend the Administrator of Comunidades, South Zone if allegations levelled against him by Opposition MLAs are substantiated.
“If the allegations regarding the officer’s conduct, particularly his reported inability to attend office due to his condition, are verified, conduct an inquiry and suspend him without delay,” Sawant asserted.
The MLAs accused the officer of attending office while intoxicated.
Revenue Minister Atanasio (Babush) Monserrate noted that the officer was serving as the administrator in addition to his responsibilities in other departments.
