MARGAO: Carmona acting sarpanch Orlando Da Silva has expressed his desire to attend the village committee’s public meeting on Sunday. However, he would do so only if he is given a personal invitation.
Orlando stated that he should be given a chance to present his side of the story given that he was the target of many allegations, but he will not come after getting updates through the media. He also referred to a recent High Court decision against another panchayat on a similar case and said it vindicated his stand.
Reacting to Orlando’s comments, the Village Committee (VC) stated that “all are welcome to attend the meeting, including the panchas and Benaulim MLA Caitu Silva.” Silva had conveyed to the villagers that he would attend the public meeting and talk to them.
Meanwhile, a vehicle took to the streets on Saturday, announcing and encouraging all to attend Sunday’s meeting at an open space near the panchayat.
“This is not just a fight for Carmona, but a fight for Goa. All are welcome to support the fight against Rahejas. We are a ready for a debate with the panchas to resolve the issue,” said Socorro Miranda, VC spokesperson.
VC president Blair Rodrigues concurred and questioned the need for personal invites when the meeting was for all villagers. He added that many people would attend the meeting and it was important that the village came together for this “history moment”.
Priests and high-profile speakers from other villages are also expected to attend the meeting, where a resolution will be taken to oppose the panchayat’s decision to grant a construction license to Raheja against the will of the public.
