MAPUSA
Objecting to the proposed time-frame of 20 days for processing land conversion applications, Aldona MLA Carlos Ferreira said if the amendment to the Goa Land Revenue Code, 1968 is carried out as per the draft, then unscrupulous elements in the real estate-lobby will use it to finish off what remains of “our little and beautiful Goa”.
Ferreira also suggested that the proposed amendment should increase the time-limit to 120 days, since departments were often short-staffed and overburdened.
“The time frame of 20 days provided is too short for authorities, especially the Forest Department, to submit report/ NOC/ recommendation. The non-receipt of a report can be engineered by a private party in connivance with the department concerned not to receive a negative report/ recommendation,” Ferreira said.
“The amendment, if carried out, will be a paradise for certain unscrupulous elements in the real estate-lobby, who will use this opportunity to finish off what remains of our little and beautiful Goa,” he added.
The Aldona MLA submitted his suggestions and objections to the proposed amendment to the draft rules under the Goa Land Revenue Code, 1968 in a letter to the Secretary (Revenue) of the State government.
Ferreira said there was no clarity on the parameters for consideration or refusal of an application for conversion which needs to be incorporated to avoid arbitrary action which can lead to nepotism and corruption.
“The proposed amendment should increase the time-limit to 120 days with use of the words "as far as possible" since departments are often short-staffed and overburdened and may not be able to meet deadlines,” he said.
