Team Herald
MARGAO: Betalbatim locals demanded a new Regional Plan that would address their concerns and cater to the needs of the local population. The meeting, called to discuss the impact of proposed mega projects on the village's resources and infrastructure, saw residents raise alarms over the potential strain these developments could place on their environment and livelihoods.
Salcete Block Development Officer (BDO), who was present at the meeting, advised the villagers to put forward their concerns to the government and propose necessary action.
Earlier, there was a lengthy debate between the BDO and some locals over the powers of the gram sabha and the panchayat bodies as per the law concerning these projects.
While the BDO stated that she did not disagree with the concerns raised by the locals, who questioned whether the authorities wanted them to be mute spectators to such mega projects coming into the village, she explained that ultimately, directions would have to be issued by the government to make resolutions, such as calling for project licenses to be revoked, legal, as they currently are not.
She cited a High Court order that clarified the limitations of the gram sabha and the panchayat body, emphasising that the panchayat can act only according to legal provisions. She also disagreed with the notion that the panchayat body had to present every file of mega projects before the gram sabha, as this was not in accordance with the law.
On a different note, locals demanded that the government enact special legislation to protect their land and safeguard the interests of Goans, ensuring that Goan lands are not sold to outsiders. They insisted that this resolution be communicated to the Chief Secretary.
The locals listed various problems faced by villagers, including water supply issues, inadequate garbage management, and insufficient roads. Additionally, the BDO agreed to look into pending complaints against the panchayat body and the delays in holding gram sabha meetings.