Vendors operating from the ground floor of the fire-ravaged Vasco’s Sunday Market issued eviction notices.
VASCO
Vendors operating from the ground floor of fire-ravaged Vasco’s Sunday Market have strongly opposed the Mormugao Municipal Council’s (MMC) decision to evict them within 24 hours, demanding reasonable time to make alternative arrangements and explore legal remedies.
The objections follow an eviction notice issued by MMC Chief Officer Siddhivinayak S Naik on November 3, directing vendors to vacate the fire-affected building within 24 hours.
The Council initiated the action in compliance with directions from the South Goa Collector, following an adverse structural stability report on the damaged building.
The notice also directs the Council to cordon off the premises and restrict public entry. Assistant Engineers of the Electricity Department and the Department of Drinking Water have been instructed to disconnect electricity and water connections to the building.
In their response to the Chief Officer, the vendors have questioned the abrupt deadline, alleging that the Council failed to follow basic principles of natural justice before issuing the eviction notice.
While acknowledging the safety concerns arising from the negative structural assessment, they maintained that they should have been given a reasonable opportunity to present their case and sufficient time to comply with the directions.
The vendors have termed the 24-hour deadline unreasonable and urged the Council to refrain from coercive action until their objections are considered.
They have specifically sought protection from enforcement action for at least 24 hours from 12.30 pm on November 4, saying the additional time would allow them to submit their response and explore legal remedies against the eviction order.
The vendors said the sudden directive had added to their distress, as many were already struggling to recover their livelihoods and safeguard their remaining belongings following the devastating market fire.
