MARGAO: Expressing concerns over the safety and security of sarpanchas while carrying out site inspections, a delegation of sarpanchas from Salcete on Saturday insisted that they should be provided police protection during inspections.
Raia Sarpanch Xavier Fernandes said that when a sarpanch along with ward members goes on site to verify complaints, fights take place between the parties, putting the life of the sarpanch to risk. “Site inspections is one thing, there is danger at the workplace too. That’s why we have all decided to meet the police higher ups,” he added.
He said the panchayat bodies receive a host of complaints, including complaints in respect of the personal agenda of the complainants. “We are asking the police to put a mechanism in place wherein the safety and security of sarpanchas and members is ensured during site inspections,” he added.
After the meeting, Rachol Sarpanch Joseph Vaz told the media that DySP Mohan Naik gave them a patient hearing and promised all cooperation to the panchayats. “We brought to the notice of the DySP incidents that have taken place in Benaulim and Sao Jose de Areal and explained the need for police protection,” Vaz said.
