In compliance with a court order, the Sancoale Communidade carried out the demolition of 64 houses that were illegally constructed on Communidade land at Birla Zuarinagar with a significant police presence. The Communidade reiterated that they had previously warned the residents about the impending demolition. Allegedly, prior to the demolition, residents had reportedly engaged in verbal abuse towards the Communidade authorities.
The Communidade’s attorney, Jayesh Phadte emphasized that residents were cautioned against constructing additional houses but chose to defy the authorities and continue building. “Initially, when there were 32 houses, we warned them not to encroach on the land and build more houses. However, they responded with abuse and threats. Hence, we’ve brought in police protection to carry out the demolition. It’s not personal; we’re simply following the court order,” stated Phadte.
President of Sancoale Communidade, Pratap Mardolkar, highlighted the need for government implementation of laws that safeguard stakeholders’ interests. “We’ve consistently cautioned against construction. The government should enforce stringent laws and compensate us because stakeholders consistently bear the losses. The government formulates laws and amendments but fails to consider our perspective,” expressed Mardolkar.
