More than three weeks after the resignation of Sarpanch Minguel Cardozo, the Navelim Village Panchayat continues to operate without a full-time head, resulting in a complete halt to several developmental initiatives and key governance processes.
Villagers and panchayat members are expressing growing frustration over the delay in holding Gram Sabhas and electing a new Sarpanch.
Cardozo stepped down from his post 22 days ago, handing over interim responsibilities to Deputy Sarpanch Velinda Dias. However, no significant progress has been made since, as the Panchayat awaits directions from the Block Development Office (BDO) to convene a special meeting for electing a new Sarpanch.
Due to this leadership vacuum, the panchayat has not held the legally mandated Gram Sabhas for April and June. Several core issues, including infrastructure repairs and welfare initiatives, remain in limbo.
“We are tired of waiting. The panchayat needs to function irrespective of who is sitting in the Sarpanch's chair. Basic civic issues are piling up,” said Franky Pires, a local resident.
Another villager, Michael Alvares, emphasised that such delays are unacceptable. “We understand procedures take time, but it’s been more than 20 days now. With no gram sabhas several works have been hampered very badly. It is high time that the officials call for a meeting to elect the new Sarpanch followed by gram sabha,” he stated.
According to panchayat sources, the absence of a full-time Sarpanch has created procedural hurdles in convening meetings and finalising key resolutions. Several proposals submitted by villagers remain untouched as a result.
Local representatives are now urging the BDO office to expedite the process of holding elections to restore normal functioning.
The delay in calling the Gram Sabha violates the Goa Panchayat Raj Act, and exposes poor governance that affects the grassroots.