the goan I network
VALPOI
The PWD officials had directed the stall owner to remove the stall by evening, failing which authorities would be free to remove the stall with police protection.
Around 100 locals protested against the move and alleged that efforts were being made to remove the stall at the behest of a politician.
According to sources, a local youth, Sachin Naik, had set up a temporary stall to cater to commuters travelling along the road. "There wasn't any complaint regarding the structure from anyone nor from the landowners, Tatoba Desai and Prataprao Desai. But the authorities initiated action on the stall," said a source.
As news of the proposed demolition spread in the area, a group of locals gathered at the site and protested against the action.
Speaking to reporters, the stall owner said politics was involved in this sudden decision, as he is employed as a driver for Congress candidate Roy Naik since the last couple of days.
"I am being warned not to move along with Roy Naik, but I ignored these threats. As a result, I am being targeted," said Sachin Naik.
Criticising the authorities, a local youth, Vishwaraj Sawant said: "This is bad politics being played by some politicians to harass opponents. We will not allow anyone to remove the stall at any cost and if it is done, there will be a law and order problem in the area," warned Sawant.
Landlords, Tatoba Desai and Prataprao Desai, said the stall was set up seven years back with their permission to cater to people from the area.
They expressed surprised that the authorities were targeting this stall without receiving any complaint.
When contacted, PWD Assistant Engineer Mahajan said the stall was illegally set up in the area belonging to the government. "This land was acquired by the PWD during construction of the bridge, but the stall was set up without permission from authorities and the PWD. It will
be removed shortly," said
Mahajan.
