In response to recent allegations made by Sanjay Naik regarding the controversial bandara project at Falnem, a group of members held a press conference to present their side of the story and set the record straight.
At the center of the controversy, Naresh, the landowner, made serious claims during the press interaction. He stated that it was Sanjay Naik who initially approached him with the idea of offering his land to the Water Resources Department (WRD) for the construction of a water tank. "I told Sanjay I would consider his suggestion," Naresh said. "A few days later, WRD officials arrived and said they were sent by Sanjay. They later met me directly and asked to acquire the land. When I asked if they wanted it on rent or ownership, they said ownership. At that point, Sanjay was clearly acting as the middleman."
Naresh further clarified that the project in question was not a bandara (weir), as alleged, but instead a pumping tank, which, according to him, would not have any adverse effects on the village or its residents.
Meanwhile, Sumit Naik, responding to the growing tensions in the village, issued a statement rejecting Sanjay Naik's claims. He clarified that all meetings related to local development had been held privately at his farmhouse and home, where public gatherings would not be expected without invitations.
Sumit also made serious allegations, accusing Sanjay Naik of extorting commissions from local industrial operations, including Goa Sponge, stone crushers, and laterite mining units. "His pattern is clear—he seeks commissions from every project. If he doesn’t get them, he opposes the project and creates unnecessary controversy. This is all part of a well-planned strategy to mislead the public," Sumit added.
The tensions over the Falnem water project are escalating as both sides defend their positions, with the debate over the project's nature and intentions continuing to stir controversy.