MAPUSA
Days after facing sharp criticism from villagers and activists, the political storm surrounding Calangute MLA Michael Lobo and Siolim MLA Delilah Lobo has intensified.
On Wednesday, RTI activist and Chapora resident Rajan Ghate filed a formal police complaint against the legislator couple at the Anjuna Police Station, alleging criminal trespass and unlawful demolition of private properties in the coastal village of Anjuna.
According to Ghate’s complaint, the demolition took place on May 11 under the direct supervision of the Lobo couple. He claims that structures and boundary walls on privately-owned land were razed without following due legal procedures, in direct violation of judicial orders and established guidelines.
“The demolition was executed without prior notice, without proper legal authorisation and without land acquisition,” Ghate said in his complaint. “This is in contravention of the Bombay High Court’s order that mandates a 15-day notice before such action. Moreover, the Supreme Court, in guidelines issued in December 2024, clearly stipulates that legal procedures and land acquisition norms must be strictly followed before encroaching upon private properties,” he added.
Ghate has invoked Section 441 of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with criminal trespass. He emphasised that the actions of the MLAs meet the criteria for “unauthorised entry with intent to harm, harass or cause damage” and demanded that an FIR be filed under relevant sections.
“The offence carries a punishment of up to 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine. The law cannot be different for elected representatives,” Ghate told 'The Goan'. He has given the police 48 hours to act on his complaint, warning that failure to do so will compel him to pursue further legal action.
The incident has stirred a wave of unrest among villagers, who are questioning the urgency and timing of the road-widening drive. Several have expressed concern over the demolitions being carried out even late at night, allegedly without proper documentation or consultation with affected residents.
Activist Swapnesh Sherlekar also raised serious questions about the involvement of the MLAs in the demolition, calling for accountability and transparency in a video that has since gone viral on social media.
As the controversy deepens, all eyes are now on the Anjuna Police and whether they will initiate action against the high-profile legislators or trigger a fresh round of legal and political battles in Goa’s volatile coastal belt.
