the goan I network
PONDA
Addressing a news conference in Nirankal on Wednesday evening, Comunidade attorney Ravi Gaonkar, Ashwin Gaonkar, Babita Samant, Pusha Matkar, Sanjeev Gaonkar and former sarpanch Madhu Khandeparkar refuted the allegations against the panchas. About 200 villagers were present to support Sarpanch Punam Samant.
It may be recalled that Sarpanch Samant and other panchas were accused of demolishing the huts with the support of the villagers. Human rights activists have also complained to the appropriate authorities.
Ponda Police booked 15 unknown accused for demolishing the huts of Makadmare tribe, who are staying on Comunidade land.
Ashwin Gaonkar said they don’t want these tribe members to stay in their village as they are involved in crimes. “We condemn the allegations leveled against Sarpanch Samant and others,” he said.
Ravi Gaonkar said Comunidade had leased the land to the forest department, which failed to take action against the tribe, though a complaint of encroachment was lodged. “We had complained several times, but the forest department didn’t take any action,” he said.
