Team Herald
MARGAO: The Congress block in Margao has strongly criticized the Margao Municipal Council (MMC) for its recent fee hike, calling it unjust and in violation of council resolutions. The new fees, implemented on April 2, have sparked outrage among residents and political leaders alike.
Congress representatives have demanded an immediate halt to the increased fees, describing them as irrational and unfair. In a statement to reporters, they accused the ruling council, local political figures, and current councillors of imposing the hike without considering the financial strain on Margao’s residents.
They also condemned the lack of transparency in the decision, arguing that it serves only those in power.
Congress leader Savio Coutinho alleged that the State government played a key role in pushing for the hike.
"The council is forcefully imposing this hike, and this is not fair. The civic body doesn’t even have proper data on the premises being charged, and this will only create confusion and chaos," Coutinho stated.
Congress members Damodar Onskar and Clifford Dias urged residents to challenge the municipal authorities when paying the increased fees, calling the hike an unnecessary financial burden.
"This is nothing but an additional financial strain on the people of Margao, and it must not be allowed to continue," they asserted.
The Congress party has demanded that the MMC suspend fee collection until a thorough review is conducted. They vowed to continue fighting for the rights of Margao’s residents and hold local authorities accountable.