Team Herald
MARGAO: The Navelim gram sabha was abruptly postponed on Sunday as chaos erupted with the members accusing the panchayat secretary of falsifying meeting minutes.
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The secretary refused to set a new date, further infuriating the villagers already upset over a construction license granted to the Rosary Higher Secondary School.
Tensions prevailed from the outset, as sarpanch Michael Cardozo was remained absent, fearing his Portuguese citizenship status would be raised.
Members questioned the legality of the panchayat resolution approving the school extension, as both Cardozo and Robin Rodrigues, who supported the move, face disqualification over foreign citizenship. The residents argued that the resolution is null and void from the date of their disqualification.
Deputy sarpanch Velinda Dias, who chaired the meeting, was unable to answer questions related to the school project and other key matters. Former sarpanch Paul Pereira was barred by the sabha from intervening.
The gram sabha strongly objected to the omission of critical issues from the minutes, including the discussion on panchayat assets raised by Antonio Alvares and allegations of misuse of RDA funds to construct illegal floors at Rosary College.
“If the minutes do not reflect the video recording, we will take action,” warned Simon Fernandes, demanding accountability.
George Barretto criticised the panchayat for approving the construction licence without prior public discussion, despite previous assurances. Cruz Rodrigues slammed the body for ignoring Navelim’s exhausted carrying capacity and worsening traffic chaos.
Following a complaint by the Navelim Consumer and Civic Forum, the TCP Department sent a letter to the panchayat regarding traffic congestion, but villagers dismissed it as a formality under political pressure.
Camorlim Sarpanch quits after
serving for over two decades
MARGAO: In a significant development, Camorlim Sarpanch Basilio Fernandes stepped down from his post after serving for 22 years.
Fernandes, a respected figure not only in Camorlim but also across South Goa, is known for his innovative ideas and unwavering commitment to public service.
Speaking to the media after formally announcing his resignation recently, Fernandes said, “I have been the Sarpanch of this village for the last 22 years and during my tenure, I have tried my best to serve the people and the village. Now, it is time for new leaders to take the chair and continue the work for the betterment of Camorlim.”
His leadership has been credited with driving several development projects and fostering community participation in local governance.
Villagers recalled his efforts in improving infrastructure, addressing environmental concerns, and promoting transparency in panchayat affairs.
