MARGAO: Against the backdrop of the incidents in Benaulim constituency where four canoes of traditional fishermen were burnt and the recent arrest of the miscreants who committed such acts, a meeting was held with the local fishing community and the South Goa District Collector Asvin Chandru at the South Goa District Collectorate on Thursday.
The purpose of the meeting, which was also attended by Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas and other officials of the District Collectorate, was to hear the demands and concerns of the fishermen from Benaulim who were present in large numbers along with their family members.
Concerns were raised about what action is being taken to stop such incidents given that they have been occurring since 2013 and that the persons responsible for such crimes have strong influence and even possess firearms.
The MLA also questioned why the police have not yet obtained the CCTV footage from the beach which would provide the necessary evidence to make the case stronger and said the delay on the part of Goa Tourism Development Corporation to hand over the same is costing the affected fishermen who need that footage as well to claim compensation.
The District Collector assured that police patrolling will be increased on the beaches and that he would speak to the South Goa Superintendent of Police.
He added that if the person arrested is a habitual offender, then further action will be taken against him under CRPC.
The Collector also informed the fishermen that he would speak to the Fisheries Department to check how the affected fishermen can receive compensation for their burnt canoes or if the same can be provided under the Disaster Management Act.
Viegas also said the people had come together to put up a united front and also because they want peace in their village and livelihood.
