VASCO
A large number of residents from Velsao gathered at Sancoale to protest on Saturday morning against the tin sheet fencing of a historic Cross, allegedly by a private builder.
The protesters accused the builder of blocking access to private properties, religious sites, and access between Velsao and Sancoale, creating inconvenience for locals.
The issue comes after a similar protest against the same builder for restricting access to the Zuarinagar post office, forcing the postmaster to operate outside the gated premises.
According to residents, the builder purchased a large chunk of land from Zuari Agro Chemicals and erected barricades, effectively blocking entry to the Holy Cross, a crematorium, and local access roads.
Social worker Roquezinho D’Souza, who previously led the agitation against the Zuarinagar post office blockade, expressed strong opposition to the builder’s actions.
“We are not here for personal or political reasons. We are fighting for our rights. The builder has barricaded the entire area, stationed security guards, and denied access without informing the locals. Private landowners, senior citizens, and devotees of the Holy Cross are suffering due to this move,” said D’Souza.
He also pointed out that the Form 1 and 14 land records indicate the land belongs to the public of Sancoale, making the barricades illegal.
Concerns over infra, pollution
A youth Aliston Pinto highlighted the long-standing environmental and infrastructural issues faced by locals due to industrial expansion in the area.
“The government had given land to Zuari Agro Chemicals for industrial purposes and employment, but we have only suffered”air and water pollution, ruined farmlands, and skin diseases among farmers. Now, instead of addressing our grievances, the land is being sold to private builders for mega residential projects.”
The protesters warned that a large-scale residential project with hundreds of flats and villas would further burden the region’s water and electricity supply, impacting locals.
“We are already struggling with water and power shortages. This influx of outsiders will consume our limited resources and destroy the village’s social fabric. The sewage and garbage from these mega projects will pollute our farms and the Bellem area,” said Pinto.
He also revealed that the site holds historical and religious importance, as it is connected to Our Lady of Remedies Church and features footsteps believed to belong to Our Lady of Remedios.
“This Holy Cross is a place of worship for generations. The builder initially assured access but has now blocked entry and stationed guards. Even private landowners have been landlocked by these barricades,” he added.
Locals demand government action
A resident Devidas Satarkar urged the Sancoale Panchayat to intervene and reject the builder’s project proposal until the local issues are resolved.
“How can industrial land be converted into a residential zone without considering the impact on locals? Authorities must wake up and act before it’s too late,” he said.
The protestors vowed to continue their agitation with or without government support and warned of intensified demonstrations if their demands were ignored.
