A fresh controversy has erupted in Margao, the commercial capital of Goa, over the ownership of a prime plot occupied by the BPS Club. This comes close on the heels of the Margao municipal garden development row.
Allegations of Conflict of Interest
Shadow council for Margao convener Savio Coutinho, addressing reporters, revealed that BPS Club president Yogiraj Kamat — son of Margao MLA and PWD minister Digambar Kamat — has filed an application before the Inspector of Survey and Land Records (ISLR) seeking confirmation of records for the plot in the club's name. Coutinho flagged a conflict of interest, noting that both the BPS Club and the Margao Municipal Council (MMC) fall within the political sphere of the Margao MLA.
Commercial Operations Without Payment
Coutinho added that the club runs commercial operations, including a restaurant, bar, and hall rentals, without paying any rent or lease premium to the council. He argued that a 1952 gazette notification cited by the applicant as basis of ownership cannot, in law, transfer title of immovable property.
Legal Requirements Not Met
Under Article 299 of the Constitution and Section 80 of the Goa Municipalities Act, 1968, any transfer of municipal land requires a council resolution, state government sanction, a registered deed, and payment of market premium — none of which was produced, he said.
