Dissenting toddy tappers question validity of newly-formed committee

MARGAO: A group representing the toddy tappers community expressed vehement objections on Saturday, firmly rejecting the formation of a new committee to head the All Goa Toddy Tappers Association. They raised questions regarding the legitimacy of the committee, particularly as a related matter remains pending before the law department.

Speaking to reporters near their office premises, this group, which includes some senior members, announced their intention to file a petition with the High Court once the concerned office pronounces its order.

Mario Coutinho, a prominent member of the group, said they will not be deterred by threats of defamation from the new committee, but would push on with their fight for the benefit of the toddy tappers’ community.

Coutinho stated, “I have evidence that demonstrates how numerous individuals, including several political representatives, have profited from falsely obtained caste certificates issued by the association. Furthermore, the association’s registration has not been renewed for several years.”

Coutinho told reporters that, as a petitioner, he should have received a copy of orders from the concerned department once they are pronounced. He raised questions about the transparency of the new committee’s election process, particularly since the matter is still awaiting a final verdict from the concerned department.

Coutinho also questioned the validity of the certificates issued, citing an order from the district registrar that declared the association invalid due to its lapsed registration.

He expressed shock at the election of a member to the alleged illegal new executive committee while a matter related to her fake caste certificate is still pending before the crime branch.

Another member of the group highlighted the original purpose of the association, which was founded to maximize benefits for future generations of toddy tappers. “We don’t want fights nor are we against anybody. We want this issue to be sorted out peacefully. Electing a new committee without the knowledge of other members is not fair,” he said.