Bombay High Court queries Anjuna Panchayat on delay in sealing 175 illegal properties

The Bombay High Court at Goa has raised serious questions regarding the delay in sealing 175 illegal structures built within the No-Development Zone (NDZ) and Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ) areas of Anjuna-Caisua village. The court's scrutiny has ignited a contentious debate surrounding the efficiency and diligence of the local panchayat's administration.
Amidst mounting concerns over environmental degradation and unauthorized commercial activities in these sensitive zones, the High Court's intervention has been hailed as a critical step towards upholding regulatory norms and preserving the ecological balance of the region.
This legal battle dates back to an earlier directive issued by the High Court on February 13, wherein the panchayat was mandated to seal the identified illegal structures, thereby preventing their exploitation for commercial purposes. Additionally, the court had stipulated a stringent timeline, demanding a compliance report within ten days.
However, the subsequent proceedings have been marred by a series of setbacks and logistical hurdles, as highlighted by the Anjuna-Caisua panchayat's plea for an extension of time. Citing operational challenges and opposition from local residents, the panchayat has cited difficulties in locating and sealing the remaining structures.
Jitendra Naik, serving as the panchayat secretary, underscored the difficulties involved in the task, lamenting the absence of adequate support from governmental authorities during the inspection process. Furthermore, the panchayat emphasized the logistical complexities posed by the terrain, where certain areas remain inaccessible via conventional means of transportation.
The panchayat's trouble has been made worse by the vehement opposition from villagers, who staged a one-day closure of activities in protest on February 19, branding the event as 'Anjuna bandh.' This demonstration of resistance underscores the deep-seated societal divisions and conflicting interests at play within the community.
In response to these challenges, the panchayat has requested the court to enlist the support of various stakeholders, including GCZMA field surveyors and former panchayat officials, to expedite the sealing process. Additionally, they have underscored the pressing need for an extended timeframe, citing ongoing financial audit meetings as a further impediment.

Next (Jammu & Kashmir Government mandates real estate project registration with RERA)

Bombay High Court queries Anjuna Panchayat on delay in sealing 175 illegal properties

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