The Rumdamol-Davorlim Panchayat has been functioning without a Sarpanch and Deputy Sarpanch for the past three months, paralysing developmental works and leaving villagers increasingly frustrated.
Former Deputy Sarpanch Shaikh Jina voiced concern over the deadlock, saying, “Whoever may take charge as a Sarpanch and Deputy Sarpanch, the common man should not suffer. Presently, villagers of Rumdamol are facing many hardships.”
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The leadership crisis stems from a legal dispute over the disqualification of four panchayat members. Block Development Officer (BDO) Adarsh Desai had ordered their disqualification, but the matter was challenged in the District Court and later reached the High Court. The High Court issued an interim order barring the four from voting in the Sarpanch and Deputy Sarpanch election until the District Court delivers its final verdict.
As a result, the Panchayat has been unable to convene gram sabhas or approve crucial resolutions. Residents say works on road repairs, garbage management and other basic amenities remain on hold. “The Panchayat is paralysed. People’s grievances are going unheard, and developmental works are stuck,” said one villager. Another added, “This stalemate has hurt grassroots democracy. Authorities must act quickly to resolve the deadlock.”
While an Administrator is handling routine administrative tasks, projects requiring policy decisions, financial approvals or representation to higher authorities remain in limbo. Villagers also fear some government schemes and grants may lapse if resolutions are not passed in time.
Rumdamol-Davorlim, no stranger to political instability, is now enduring one of its longest governance crises, with residents anxiously awaiting a court verdict to restore normal functioning of the Panchayat.
