MARGAO: In an incident that has been the centre of public outrage, former sarpanch of Verna Village Panchayat Loren Alfonso has expressed fear for her own life and that of her neighours in view of the manner in which panch of the ward Anthony Braganza demolished a chicken shop next to her house.
Incidentally, the shop was providing a source of income to the family of three orphans and villagers of Verna.
While addressing mediapersons, Loren and one of the three boys of the family, who owned the shop, Tyron Gop, recounted the horrific incident that took place in the village.
Recalling that the Panch Braganza had allegedly hit another person named Charlie in the past, Loren said in all her term period as an former panch and resident of the village, never has seen any panch member attacking a common man and damaging property like this before.
Further, she alleged that the notice that was served by the panchayat for revoking licence was filled with discrepancies.
She said that they were getting ready to challenge the same but were shocked to see their shop demolished by the panch.
Pointing out that someone had filed a complaint against the compound wall of her property too, she questioned if the panch can take law in his own hands and damaged her property.
“Does this mean that tomorrow anyone can file a complaint and after that a panch will come and physically destroy a shop or property. Aren’t there rules and procedures for this where any action has to be taken by the authorities after completing the due process. Where is the law and order here?” Loren questioned.
