Minister Mauvin Godinho’s recent remark that if the Goa Government approves a housing or mega project in a village, the Gram Sabha should not disapprove it, has raised concerns among many citizens. It is important to remember that the Government functions on behalf of the people, and the Gram Sabha is a constitutionally recognised institution that represents the collective voice of villagers. Its role in local decision-making should be respected, especially when public concerns are raised about the approval process for large development projects.
There is also growing concern over policy changes that are perceived to make it easier for projects to proceed. For instance, the provision requiring panchayats to respond to project proposals within 15 days, failing which government authorities may issue permissions, has prompted questions about whether adequate time is available for meaningful local consultation. The Gram Sabha is a cornerstone of the Panchayati Raj system and participatory democracy as envisaged by the Constitution of India. I therefore urge the Goa Government to continue strengthening awareness of the constitutional role of Gram Sabhas among all stakeholders, including elected representatives, so that development and democratic participation can go hand in hand.
Arwin Mesquita, Colva
