The current pay structure -- Rs 8,000 for Sarpanch, Rs 6,500 for Deputy Sarpanch and Rs 5,500 for panch members -- is extremely low and needs urgent revision to ensure a basic standard of living. Such inadequate remuneration risks encouraging corruption within panchayats.
However, it is equally troubling to observe the visibly lavish lifestyles of some panch members, reflected in expensive cars, houses and other assets that seem disproportionate to their official earnings. This raises serious questions about the sources of their wealth and points to a glaring “elephant in the room” regarding possible corruption.
Authorities in Goa, including the Chief Minister, Panchayat Minister and investigative agencies, appear to be overlooking these red flags by not initiating thorough inquiries into such cases of disproportionate assets. At the same time, there may be others who maintain a modest public image while quietly accumulating questionable wealth and real estate. These cases, too, warrant careful scrutiny to ensure transparency, accountability and public trust in local governance.
