In a significant development, the Goa High Court has directed authorities to restore the paddy field at Guirim within a strict timeframe of three months. Failure to comply with this order will be considered an act of disobedience, according to Adv. Om D'Costa, who brought the matter to the court's attention.
The case stems from a Writ PIL filed against the illegal filling of low-lying agricultural lands in the villages of Socorro, Guirim, and Sangolda. The petition also seeks the long-overdue demolition and land restoration, as per a previous order by the Hon'ble High Court of Goa. Despite the court's directive, the Goa government has repeatedly sought extensions, postponing the execution of the order.
Adv Om D'Costa emphasized that the authorities' failure to carry out the restoration work could result in serious consequences, as the court has clearly stated that non-completion will be treated as contempt of court. The order aims to protect agricultural lands and ensure that the High Court's instructions are followed without further delay.