A coalition of prominent Scheduled Tribe (ST) organisations has jointly filed a petition before the District Registrar and Inspector General of Societies (South), challenging the legality of the current executive council of the United Tribals Associations Alliance (UTTA).
Addressing a press conference, Govind Shirodkar of the Gawada, Kunbi, Velip and Dhangar Federation stated that the organisations party to the petition include the All Goa Scheduled Tribes Union, Tribal Welfare Organisation, Gaud Jamat Mahasangh Goa, Taleigao Tribal Welfare, Gomantak Gaud Maratha Samaj, Tribes of Goa, and Gomantak Velip Samaj Sangh.
Shirodkar said the petition contains serious allegations of fraud, financial mismanagement, and violation of the UTTA’s bye-laws by the present leadership headed by Prakash Velip.
“It contests the validity of the election allegedly held on September 30, 2022, stating that no proper notice was served to member associations, and that many names listed as attendees or members are fraudulent or not affiliated with the alliance,” he said.
The petitioners have sought a declaration that the 2022 election is null and void, the appointment of an independent administrator, and an immediate audit of financial records. They have also prayed for ad-interim relief restraining the current executive council from functioning.
Shirodkar further alleged that both Prakash Velip and Minister for Sports, Art and Culture and Rural Development Govind Gaude have used the UTTA platform for personal gain. He claimed that the existing leadership does not consult other tribal organisations before making decisions.
He also pointed out that Velip has held office for the last seven years, contrary to UTTA’s rules. “According to the bylaws, the term of the executive council of UTTA has to be for three years, and no member can continue for two consecutive terms. But Prakash Velip has been there for seven years,” Shirodkar said.
© 2025 All Rights Reserved. Powered by Summit