PONDA: The propose hike in house tax and the controversial proposed ISKON Project at Betki plateau generated much heat at the Borim gram sabha yesterday.
Locals demanded that the proposal to hike house tax be withdrawn immediately and also resolved to opposed mega projects in future as it would create a burden on village infrastructure.
Former Sarpanch Chandru Gaude said that the panchayat decision to enormously hike the house was an unnecessary burden on the public
“The panchayat should conduct tax assessment every five years but in Borim, the tax assessment was done in 2005 and now in 2023,” said Gaude.
Utkarsh Prabudesai said locals are still recovering from the pandemic and the tax hiked by 400 times should be withdrawn.
Heated arguments were witnessed over the destruction at the Bethki plateau and members demanded that the eco sensitive zone should be preserved for posterity as it was a village water source beside habitat of wild animals. Locals opposed construction of road at plateau.
Panch Vinay Parpati demanded that the panchayat hold a discussion with proponent of ISKON Project and locals and suggested that people should be provided information about the nature of the project. Sarpanch Domingo Vaaz presided over the meeting.
