Villagers of Novimoddi–Tilamol have expressed concern that the present Sarpanch, Kavita Gauns Dessai, may be under pressure as the dispute over a proposed construction project continues to intensify. According to residents, the issue has placed the panchayat in a difficult position between safeguarding the villagers’ right to access their homes and supporting the interests of the builder.
Responding to a statement made by the Sarpanch in the media claiming that the Deputy Director of Panchayats had granted the construction licence, villager Ronni Oliveira clarified that the authority to issue construction licences within the jurisdiction lies solely with the Village Panchayat.
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The villagers have already approached the District Court Margao, where they filed a petition under Civil Suit No. 21/2023. The matter is currently pending for hearing.
During the elected members’ meeting held on March 12, 2026, Ward Member Caetano Carvalho, along with former Sarpanch Dipti Naik, once again raised strong objections to the issuance of the construction licence. They stated that the villagers’ long-standing concern regarding road access to their homes has yet to be resolved.
Residents have urged the panchayat authorities to address the access issue before proceeding with any decision related to the proposed construction project.
