Deputy sarpanch leads

MARGAO, MAY 8
He may be playing second fiddle to the Sarpanch given his status as the village deputy Sarpanch.
But, come gram sabhas, whether ordinary or special meeting, and Nuvem deputy Sarpanch Menino Mascarenhas, assumes the role of the Sarpanch as he is found often presiding the meetings in the absence of the incumbent Sarpanch.
When contacted, Mascarenhas has no qualms when the NGOs question and criticize him for assuming the role of the Sarpanch during gram sabha meetings.  Mascarenhas says he has no vested interest when he presides over the gram sabha meetings.