Team Herald
MARGAO: Citizens for Democracy Goa (CFD) sharply criticised the State government for its lukewarm response to the Supreme Court’s recent directives on tackling illegal constructions. CFD Convenor Elvis Gomes argued that the government’s actions should extend beyond demolition drives to ensure comprehensive accountability, including punitive measures against officials and a halt on arbitrary zone changes that harm public interest and the environment.
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Gomes explained that the Supreme Court’s order in the ‘UP Avas Vikas Nigam’ case highlights the need for stringent measures, including contempt of court proceedings against officials who overlook illegal constructions. “The SC mandates not just bulldozer justice but accountability. Arbitrary modifications to zonal plans that benefit a few while disregarding public interest and environmental considerations must be stopped,” he stated.
Calling for a review of all past zone changes by the TCP Board, Gomes emphasised that many of these decisions likely violate the Supreme Court’s directive prioritising public interest. “The entire TCP Board, not just the Chief Town Planner, should face criminal charges for decisions that disregard environmental concerns and the larger public good,” he asserted.
Gomes urged landowners, including Comunidades, to take legal action against officials complicit in permitting illegal constructions. He argued that high-profile projects such as those by Bhutani, DLF, and the NH66 deviation by the Ministry of Road Transport at GMC Bambolim must also be reviewed for compliance with environmental and public interest regulations.
Referencing the partial demolition of a house in Assagao, Gomes criticised the emergence of a “bulldozer raj” approach prevalent in some States, which he said lacks accountability and transparency. “The circular issued should address more than just unlawful demolitions. It must ensure that the entire decision-making process adheres to the principles outlined by the Supreme Court,” Gomes said. He also noted that the SC’s directives would strengthen the ongoing High Court PIL against illegal constructions in Goa.
Gomes called on citizens to take advantage of the Supreme Court order to hold officials accountable and protect public interest. “This is an opportunity for landowners, including Comunidades, to challenge illegality through the courts and demand action against those violating environmental regulations,” he added.
The CFD reiterated that enforcing accountability at all levels of governance is essential to preserving Goa’s fragile environment and maintaining equitable development. “The State government must immediately implement the Supreme Court’s directives in letter and spirit to restore public trust and safeguard Goa’s future,” Gomes concluded.
