Team Herald
MARGAO: Thursday saw a major development in Margao as the Municipal Council issued notices to several councillors, former councillors, and other political leaders to pay advertising fees as a penalty for displaying banners/hoardings without permission during festivals like Diwali and Christmas. This move has raised questions among citizens as to why they are being burdened with heavy taxes while local representatives are able to avoid paying fees. The concerned individuals have been asked to pay penalties for the banners/hoardings for which permission was not granted.
According to Manuel Barretto, Chief Officer of the Margao Municipal Council, many had sought permission, but they had erected more banners than permitted. “And hence, they will have to pay the differences,” said the Chief Officer. Some councillors admitted to OHeraldo, that they received notices and paid the penalties, but sources say that many had taken permission for a few banners/hoardings, but displayed more.
Savio Coutinho, former MMC Chairperson and Convenor of Shadow Council for Margao, had filed a complaint in November 2022, alleging that many councillors, former councillors, and political leaders had put up banners and hoardings in the jurisdiction of the Council without permission, resulting in a loss of revenue to the civic body. After compiling details, it was observed that a maximum number of displays had been put up without permission.
The complaint requested the recovery of dues from those who were not issued permission, along with applicable penalties.
In the list, 14 names were mentioned, including some big political leaders, councillors, former councillors, and even local leaders. Coutinho clarified that there was no intention to target any public representative or politician, but rather a genuine attempt to make them realise their responsibility towards public revenue. An application was filed under the RTI Act to seek information about the action taken on the complaint, which prompted the Council to issue directions to the defaulting public figures.
Councillors have been asked to pay penalties, and one has already paid the dues. “I have already paid the dues,” said the concerned Councillor.
