VASCO
The Directorate of Panchayats has placed Orville C Vales, Secretary (Gram Sevak) of the Village Panchayat of Sancoale under suspension with immediate effect, pending disciplinary proceedings, following serious allegations of harassment, procedural irregularities, and flouting of panchayat regulations.
Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai had raised the issue of the Sancoale secretary in the Assembly and questioned the government as to why Vales was not suspended despite the recommendation of the Vigilance Department and the Chief Secretary of Goa.
The order, dated August 1, 2025, was issued by Siddhi T Halaranakar, Director of Panchayats, Panaji, based on a detailed report received from the Directorate of Vigilance.
An enquiry conducted by the Anti-Corruption Branch revealed several violations, including the failure to process building license applications within the mandated 30-day period under the Goa Panchayat Raj Act, 1994. The Secretary also allegedly manipulated meeting minutes, passed resolutions without proper quorum or consent, and allowed unauthorised persons to sign proceedings.
Notably, Vales failed to identify himself during a site inspection on April 28, and did not produce documents proving his authority. The Vigilance report found his conduct during the inspection to be "unbecoming of a public servant," citing audio-visual evidence submitted by the complainant.
The report also highlights that Vales issued a construction license to one applicant without mandatory NOCs, while denying or delaying similar approvals to others, indicating discriminatory practices.
Invoking Rule 10(1) of the Central Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1965, Director Siddhi T Halaranakar has placed Orville Vales under suspension with immediate effect. He will remain under suspension while disciplinary proceedings are initiated against him.
