Tensions flared in Navelim after a delegation led by advocate Pratima Coutinho confronted local panchayat authorities over a construction licence granted to a private builder despite strong objections from residents.
Coutinho, who led the delegation along with local residents, strongly criticised the decision, remarking “10 khoke n everything is ok,” while questioning the transparency of the approval process.
The delegation met Sarpanch Paul Pereira, Secretary Sandip Halliyal, and other panchayat members, pressing them for answers over the controversial licence issued by the panchayat body.
Residents expressed concerns over the project and alleged that their objections were ignored before granting permission to the builder. Coutinho demanded that the licence be revoked at the earliest.
Following the meeting, the Navelim Panchayat reportedly agreed to review the matter and take steps towards revoking the licence, offering some relief to the aggrieved residents.
The issue highlights growing concerns among locals over development decisions and the need for greater accountability in panchayat-level governance.

