Team Herald
MARGAO: Villagers from Seraulim held a meeting with the Saclete Block Development Officer (BDO) on Thursday, demanding immediate action against their local panchayat for alleged involvement in illegal activities.
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A delegation of villagers, led by Joaquim Dias, raised their concerns before BDO Nimisha Phaldesai, presenting evidence of several unlawful practices within the panchayat.
They accused the panchayat body of failing to conduct proper gram sabhas, and highlighted a series of illegal activities, including unauthorized construction and business dealings by elected panchayat members.
Joaquim Dias, speaking to reporters, said, “What is shocking is that gram sabha meetings are abruptly concluded without addressing the proposals brought forward by the villagers. Critical issues, such as illegal land filling and trade licenses issued to the elected members, are being ignored.”
He went on to express frustrations that, despite filing numerous complaints, the villagers have been forced to approach the BDO for action due to the lack of response.
“The deputy sarpanch, in particular, lacks the competence and knowledge to conduct gram sabhas in the absence of the sarpanch,” he added.
According to the villagers, there are also serious concerns about disruptions during the gram sabhas, with elected members allegedly bringing their supporters and family members to interfere with proceedings.
“In the past, even the BDO office has failed to conduct an inquiry into the complaints filed by villagers,” Dias said. “We demand an immediate investigation into the actions of the sarpanch and deputy sarpanch, as well as the secretary and other panchayat members.”
Further allegations were made regarding the inaccurate recording of the gram sabha minutes. “Things that were never discussed are being falsely reported in the minutes,” the villagers claimed. “It’s shocking that the panchayat is responding to complaints about illegal activities involving villagers when they themselves are engaged in similar unlawful actions. The sarpanch and deputy sarpanch have no right to continue in their roles while engaging in such illegal practices.”
The villagers are calling for swift and decisive action to address these grievances and restore accountability within the panchayat.
