VASCO
Anxiety and heartbreak gripped tenants and occupants of the iconic Neogi Mansion in Vasco on Friday as preparations began for the demolition of the decades-old structure following a High Court order.
With demolition expected in the coming days, several tenants and long-time occupants said they were unaware of the legal proceedings until authorities asked them to vacate the premises. They alleged that the owners had failed to keep them informed about developments that led to the building’s fate.
The High Court, while hearing a petition filed by Rajiv Nevgi challenging an earlier order of the Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC), directed that the building be demolished within two weeks.
Sources said the owner has agreed to undertake the demolition at his own expense instead of the MMC carrying out the exercise, estimated to cost around Rs 20 lakh.
The court further directed that if the owners fail to demolish the structure within the stipulated period, the MMC should proceed with the demolition after four weeks.
Police and Fire Services have been directed to make necessary arrangements for the demolition.
Following the court order, police reportedly asked occupants to vacate the building. Throughout the day, tenants and business owners were seen hurriedly shifting furniture, machinery, documents and other belongings from shops and offices that have operated from the landmark building for decades.
For many, the move was deeply emotional. Several occupants said Neogi Mansion had been their home or place of business for over 50 years and formed an inseparable part of their lives. Some elderly residents said they had nowhere to go and were struggling to find alternative accommodation at short notice.
Business owners spoke of the pain of shutting establishments that had served generations of customers and expressed uncertainty about the future.
While saying they were not opposed to the High Court order, several tenants questioned why they had not been informed earlier about the legal proceedings and the possibility of demolition. They also urged the owners to address issues relating to tenant rights and rehabilitation.
