Goa’s Mhaje Ghar scheme continues to draw sharp criticism and confusion among locals as the government notifies The Goa Regularisation of Grant/Allotment of Encroached Comunidade Land Rules, 2025 under the amended Goa Legislative Diploma No. 2070 (15-4-1961).
Under the new rules, applicants must submit several documents and affidavits proving that their houses were built before February 28, 2014. These include certificates from local bodies confirming house numbers, proof of construction prior to 2014, and a residence certificate issued by the Mamlatdar certifying 15 years of residence in Goa. Applicants must also attach Form I and XIV, a site plan, survey plan, and a zoning certificate from the TCP Department.
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Additionally, applicants are required to seek consent from the concerned Comunidade. If the Comunidade fails to respond within 45 days, the Administrator of Comunidades will issue a “deemed consent” certificate.
However, several political leaders, lawyers, and activists have raised concerns about the scheme’s intent and execution.
Aldona MLA and senior advocate Carlos Alvares Ferreira said the scheme is “not helping Goans” due to multiple conditions and complicated documentation. “If two houses are built on one plot, you cannot regularise one or the other. The form requires applicants to be landless, which excludes many Goans,” he added.
Adv. Cleofato Almeida Coutinho questioned the legality of the scheme, stating, “The Supreme Court has made it clear — what is illegal will remain illegal. This law effectively legitimises encroachments and encourages future illegality.”
Social activist Dr. Jorson Fernandes criticised the scheme as “an election-driven gimmick.” He said the government should instead strengthen the Goa Housing Board for fair and systematic housing distribution. “People see through such announcements made close to elections,” he said.
Meanwhile, Comunidade representatives also expressed opposition. Assagao attorney Nelson Fernandes said, “Ten comunidades will file writ petitions in the High Court challenging the Mhaje Ghar scheme. It’s unconstitutional and rewards encroachers.”
Margao Comunidade president Savio Correia added that several Comunidades are not functioning due to staff deployment for election duties. “Seven comunidades in Salcete are paralysed as the Escrivao handling them has been assigned other work,” he noted.
Critics argue that if the government truly aims to provide homes to Goans, it should consult Comunidades, acquire land through due legal process, and ensure transparency rather than legalising encroachments.
