VELSAO: In a dramatic turn of events, a major shift in stance has rocked the ongoing debate over the proposed jurisdictional changes involving Velsao-Pale-Issorcim and Chicolna-Bogmalo panchayats under the Mormugao Block.
Former Panch and prominent social worker Roquezinho D’Souza, who previously spearheaded opposition against removing Ward No. 7 (comprising Issorcim and Ranghavi Estate) from Velsao Panchayat, has officially flipped his position.
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D’Souza’s reversal comes following an on-ground visit to Issorcim, where he engaged directly with local residents. According to D’Souza, a significant cross-section of villagers actively favors separating from the Velsao Panchayat, pointing to years of systemic neglect and a stark lack of infrastructural development in their area.
Reiterating his pledge to back the community’s grassroots demands, D’Souza publicly criticized both the Velsao Sarpanch and the Issorcim Ward Panch Member for failing to address the basic needs of the ward.
This unexpected realignment is set to send shockwaves through the upcoming Special Gram Sabha scheduled for Sunday. With public sentiment mounting and former opposition leaders now siding with the movement, the demand for jurisdictional bifurcation is expected to trigger fiery debates during the assembly.
