The Shadow Council for Margao Convener, Savio Coutinho, along with noted columnist Jose Maria Miranda and Madel resident Iftiyaz Sayed, expressed deep concern over the Margao Municipal Council’s blatant disregard for a High Court order dated 30th October 2015, in Writ Petition 801/201.
The trio accused the council and other government authorities of flouting the court order, warning of filing a Contempt Petition against those responsible for the violation.
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Coutinho displayed the court order, highlighting that despite specific conditions laid down for public convenience, the council prioritized revenue collection over public interest. He alleged that the fair primarily serves the interests of a “benami” Sopo Contractor, allegedly with political backing from Margao.
Demanding transparency, Coutinho called for the disclosure of payments made to the Sopo Contractor and clarification on revenue collected from vendors occupying unmarked spaces during the fair.
Referring to a viral audio clip involving Margao MLA Digamber Kamat, Coutinho condemned the MLA’s alleged involvement in disobeying the court order.
Jose Maria Miranda criticized the Chief Officer and Chairperson for disregarding public sentiments and proceeding to disobey court directions. He lamented the transformation of the traditional Purumentache Fest, which originally featured stalls of home provisions, into a fair dominated by non-provision items like readymade garments.
Local resident Iftiyaz Sayed urged authorities to consider the hardships faced by Madel residents during the fair period.
The citizens called for accountability and adherence to the court order, emphasizing the importance of public welfare over commercial interests in organizing the fair.
