Calls for strict action against ‘corrupt’ officials
MAPUSA
Revolutionary Goans Party (RGP) MLA Viresh Borkar launched a scathing attack on the Town and Country Planning (TCP) department on Thursday, accusing its officials of blindly approving illegal land developments and demanding strict action against those involved in corruption.
Raising the issue of an alleged illegal land plotting project in Neura during the Assembly session, Borkar alleged that TCP officials were hand-in-glove with project proponents and failed to conduct proper site inspections before granting permissions.
“The TCP officials, including the Deputy Town Planner, are corrupt. They simply sign off on the plans presented to them without even visiting the property or verifying facts on the ground. Strict action must be taken against such officers,” Borkar charged.
Citing several irregularities in the Neura case, Borkar pointed out that the property under development had no access road, and neither the road nor other critical features were marked on the Regional Plan.
“There are two wells in the property, but the proponent showed only one. Additionally, a private road that carries a water pipeline on either side was completely ignored in the plan,” he alleged.
The RGP legislator also raised concerns about harassment faced by locals after the Delhi-based buyer of the land allegedly attempted to block access to the private road and even initiated legal proceedings against residents.
“What is happening here? How can someone from outside threaten locals and claim that a long-existing road is illegal? This is unacceptable,” Borkar said, questioning the accountability of the authorities involved.
Responding to the allegations, TCP Minister Vishwajit Rane clarified that the property concerned falls under the settlement zone as per the Regional Plan 2021.
He assured the House that the department would write to the Public Works Department (PWD) to formally notify the road in question.
Rane further defended the functioning of the TCP, stating, “Officials follow a proper checklist as per the Building Regulations Act. During inspections, they take photographs and follow all procedures mandated by law.”
However, Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao pointed out a discrepancy in the government’s written response. “The TCP has given permission for 11 plots, while the government’s reply mentions 12,” he said.
Minister Rane acknowledged the discrepancy and confirmed that permissions were granted only for 11 plots.
