VASCO
A Goencho Ekvott (GE) delegation on Friday submitted memorandum to Mormugao Dy Collector Dattaraj K Gauns Dessai to demand the scrapping of the new land acquisition for the doubling of railway track at Curchorem, Cacora, Davorlim, Arossim, Cansaulim and Velsao.
Speaking to the media, GE Joint Secretary Olencio Simoes said the Goan Panchayat Raj Act bestows on panchayats the responsibility for development, health, social welfare, lives and livelihood of villagers in the panchayat areas.
“But even after the Velsao-Pale-Issorcim, Cansaulim-Arossim-Cuelim and other panchayats opposed the land acquisition, the government is forcing it against the wishes of the villagers,” said Simoes.
GE Founder Member Orville Dourado Rodrigues said the Supreme Court directed the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) to evaluate the allegations.
“In their report dated April 23 submitted to the Supreme Court, the CEC states that it ‘does not find any justification for undertaking a project of this nature’ and recommended that the Court ‘revoke the permissions granted’.”
“When the execution of this project is sub-judice before the SC, why is the government still pressing for this project as CM had clearly said the government would stand by the CEC verdict,” said Rodrigues.
