Goa Villagers Stage Sit-In Protest at TCP Office Over Land Conversion
Villagers from Palem-Siridao in Goa staged a determined sit-in protest at the Town and Country Planning (TCP) department office on Saturday, demanding the immediate revocation of land conversion approvals for nine plots that were sanctioned under Section 39A of the TCP Act. The protest, which began around 10 am, saw a significant gathering of local residents, environmental activists, and RG MLA Viresh Borkar, who camped outside the office of Chief Town Planner Vertika Dagur to voice their opposition.
Allegations of Environmental Destruction
The villagers strongly opposed the conversion of over 84,000 square meters of land, which includes critical hill slopes and areas designated as eco-sensitive and no development zones. They alleged that this conversion is leading to the destruction of natural habitats and violating environmental safeguards. MLA Viresh Borkar highlighted the severity of the issue, stating that four proposals have received final approval, while five others have been granted provisional nods in the St Andre constituency.
"All the hills in our villages were cut and destroyed. Properties on natural slopes, in no development zones, orchard land, and eco-sensitive land were converted because of Section 39A," Borkar asserted, emphasizing the widespread impact of the land conversions.
Prolonged Agitation and Police Response
To signal their intent for a prolonged agitation, the protestors brought utensils, firewood, and mats, indicating they were prepared to stay until their demands were met. Initially, police personnel prevented the villagers from entering the TCP office, but as the crowd swelled, they relented, allowing the protestors to enter the premises.
Once inside, the villagers sang traditional fugdi songs and raised slogans to amplify their message. One villager expressed frustration, saying, "They troubled us. Can't TCP officials work two extra hours till the file is approved? We were forced to save our village." This sentiment underscored the community's desperation and resolve to protect their local environment.
Allegations of Missing Files and Political Challenges
MLA Viresh Borkar made a serious allegation during the protest, claiming that Chief Town Planner Vertika Dagur had signed a revocation file and sent it for approval, but it subsequently "disappeared." He vowed that the protestors would not leave until a favorable decision was reached, challenging TCP Minister Vishwajit Rane to a public debate on the alleged violations.
"We will not get up till we get a decision in our favour," Borkar declared, highlighting the protestors' unwavering commitment to their cause. The sit-in has drawn attention to broader issues of land use, environmental protection, and governance in Goa, with villagers calling for greater transparency and accountability in the TCP department's decision-making processes.
