PANAJI
Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar has criticised the Mormugao Municipal Council Chief Officer for issuing notices directing fire-affected shopkeepers to vacate their premises within 24 hours, alleging that the move would further harass victims already affected by the fire incident.
Addressing the shopkeepers on Thursday, Salkar assured them of government support and said the matter had been brought to the notice of Chief Minister Pramod Sawant.
Salkar contrasted the efforts of those who rushed to help during the incident with the issuance of eviction notices by officials.
“Yesterday, there was a panic situation during the tragic night. The Chief Officer was there, and his car was also there. But now, he has issued a notice to vacate the premises. Rather than issuing notices, the Chief Officer should have taken responsibility, since he oversees the administration,” Salkar said.
Meanwhile, MMC Chief Officer Siddhivinayak Naik has been transferred and directed to report to the Department of Personnel until further orders. Margao Municipal Council Chief Officer Madhu G. Narvekar will hold additional charge of Mormugao.
The officers have been directed to complete the handing-over and taking-over process immediately and submit a compliance report.
