Team Herald
VASCO: Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) witnessed heated arguments on the anti-encroachment drive being carried out by the local body in the port town.
Opposition Councillors took exception to the aggressive manner of the drive and alleged that the drive was an act of revenge as the vendors were unable to pay the demanded bribe money to some councillor.
MMC Chairperson faced the wrath of the opposition Councillors during the special meeting convened to discuss the MMC Centenary Year celebrations alongwith 22 other items on the agenda.
Former chairperson Deepak Naik alleged that the anti-encroachment drive has dislodged and troubled the poor fruit and vegetable vendors.
“The encroachment definitely has to be removed, but troubling the poor vendors is not the right way”, Deepak said.
He further questioned “Why did the vendors come to the MMC shouting slogans of MMC Murdabad? We are a part of the MMC and we don’t wish to hear slogans against us.”
The former chairperson alleged that the anti-encroachment drive was a revenge tactic. “I have personally inquired and found out that the some Councillor had demanded money from the vendors and when they conveyed their inability, the drive begun”, Deepak stated.
MMC Chairperson Kritesh Gaonkar responded stating “Allegations are there but the people see the difference. We have taken action on encroachments all over town and not just against some specific market. Since we have stepped in, there are allegations going on. However we are being appreciated along with our staff, who are working really hard for the people of the town.”
MMC has decided to hold a weeklong centenary year celebrations. MMC has urged people to give suggestions. Mahila Mandals will be given opportunities for counters of their services. Exhibition will also be held.
