Says opposition to mega projects not binding on TCP
TEAM HERALD
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PANJIM: Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar Tuesday categorically said that gram sabha resolutions, which oppose mega projects are not binding on the Town and Country Planning Department and that the authority vests with village panchayats to revoke licenses of projects, if opposed by the people.
He was replying to a Zero Hour notice moved by Curtorim MLA Alexio Reginald Lourenco over the TCP’s recent advisory to the Directorate of Panchayats on this issue. The advisory was reported extensively in the Herald last week and cited opinions from legal experts.
“There are zones of consideration for gram sabhas and in this matter they are going out of the framework,” he said pointing out that the TCP has been receiving gram sabha resolutions appealing to the TCP not to grant NOCs for construction projects.
He reiterated that it is for the village panchayats to decide whether it wants to have a project or not or cancel a licence even if the TCP approves it. He said that gram sabha resolutions are only an expression of support on issues and not binding on any authority.
Lourenco raising the issue in the Assembly on Tuesday said that the TCP letter to the Directorate of Panchayats had created anxiety and fear that powers of gram sabhas are being overruled and views being curtailed. He requested the government to withdraw the letter issued by the TCP.
Regularisation of BEd teachers: Education minister Manohar Parrikar condemned the acts of the contract BEd teachers demanding regularisation.
“Serving on a contract does not give them the right to demand for permanency,” he said, pointing out that these agitating teachers were clearly taken on a short term contract of six months only.
“A six months contract does not give them the right to protest and if they don’t understand this what will they teach?” he questioned while replying to a Zero Hour notice raised by Sanquelim MLA Pramod Sawant in the House on Tuesday. Parrikar said that there are around 325 posts to be filled up in phased manner and eligible BEd teachers can apply.
