This is with reference to the news report ‘Calangute p’yat to crack down on illegal structures from April 1’ (TGE, Mar. 29). As per the above report, there are numerous structures, including some on footpaths in Calangute, which are likely to face action after the High Court order of March 6.
The question, therefore, which naturally arises is: what was the village panchayat of Calangute doing all these years in the face of all these illegalities? Were no site inspections held to check for illegalities? Or is it only the duty of the panchayat to make things difficult for genuine builders by delaying permission on flimsy grounds?Unfortunately, illegalities seem to be the case in all panchayats and municipalities, according to the High Court, where illegal structures have sprouted on footpaths, paddy fields, and government land, and are even used for commercial purposes. Yet, the Goa government seems more inclined to bring in legislation to protect illegal structures and those affected.
