VASCO: Panchayat Minister Mauvin Godinho on Monday assured that all representations of the people complaining against the improper ward delimitation process to favour any individual aspirants or panel would not only be readdressed judiciously, but as minister will also ensure fair play in the panchayat elections.

Speaking to reporters in Vasco, Godinho said, “I want to assure to the people of state that wherever people have made representations about improper ward delimitation process to favour any individual aspirant or panel, all such complaints are being readdressed judiciously and in fair manner and whatever is needed to be incorporated will be done with required necessary changes. We have been readdressing the complaints on merit so that there should be fair play in the panchayat elections,” he said.

Commenting on the decision to hold panchayat elections a week early, he said, “As soon as I returned, I held meetings with panchayat officials and we decided to hold elections little early. I told them to work a little harder. After due consultations, I put up the proposal to hold panchayat elections one week earlier to which they agreed. Later, we consulted the Election Commissioner and he too has agreed to June 17 and hence we fixed this date. Now, the file will move and the same date will be announced officially. “

“I also consulted Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar and explained to him the circumstances, as on June 24, Goans celebrate Sao Joao and respecting sentiments of festival revellers, we decided to hold elections a week early,” he Godinho informed.

 “Of the 191 panchayats, 185 will be going to polls on June 17 as the elections to the six-odd panchayats were held late. So the election date of these six panchayats will be announced later. With regards to the ward delimitation process, the same will be completed by April or by first week of May and the same will be duly notified,” he added.