Earlier, the gram sabha members of Chicalim panchayat and Sancoale panchayat adopted resolutions opposing marinas. The support of Chicolna-Bogmalo panchayat will add strength to the battle launched by the people of Chicalim and Sancoale against marinas.
Speaking to reporters, Chicolna-Bogmalo Sarpanch Laxman Kavlekar said that although he is not opposed to marinas, he is upset with the manner in which the state government is forcing development without consulting the stake holders.
“Earlier Bogmalo was part of Chicalim panchayat and was then bifurcated. Bogmalo still shares a strong bonding with the people of Chicalim. As the people of Chicalim are opposing the proposed marina project, we too stand by them extending them all support as the site selected is ecologically fragile and is of marine importance,” he said.
Kavlekar added, “We feel that before making any announcement the government should come to the people and explain the pros and cons of the project and only if the people are agreeable then the proposal should be forwarded. Kavlekar also assured that at the next panchayat meeting he would place the issue so that in the forthcoming gram sabha, a decision to oppose setting up marina projects without people’s wishes would be taken.
“It’s a half-baked exercise that the state government is trying out which is leading to confusion. I am surprised that not a single meeting was called to provide details of the project.
