Goans Rally Against Bhutani Project in Sancoale
Goans are rallying in Sancoale to support former Sarpanch Premanand Naik, who is on an indefinite hunger strike against the Bhutani Infra Project. The peaceful protest calls for the revocation of the construction license issued to the company.
GoaSancoaleBhutani Infra ProjectPremanand NaikProtestReal EstateOct 27, 2024
Goans in Sancoale have rallied in support of former Sarpanch Premanand Naik, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike for the past seven days. The protest, held peacefully near the village panchayat, demands the immediate revocation of the construction license issued to the Bhutani Infra Project.
Addressing the gathering, social activist Anthony D’Silva emphasized the community's unity. “No means No. We do not want the project. We do not want further explanation on this. Whether it is Premanand Naik or Anthony D’Silva, we will continue the fight because this is going to be the beginning and the end. If we, Goans cannot stop this one Bhutani project, then we will never be able to protect Goa anymore.”
Aruna Wagh, another social activist, reinforced the right to protect their land. “It is our birth right to protect our land. We have to remain united and fight for our rights.”
Tulshidas Naik, an opposition panch member of Sancoale Panchayat and BJP district president, stated, “I am the BJP district president and my party says nation first. So for me, the nation is still first, but under the same nation, the Bhutani project is coming up, so I do not want this project.”
Activist Fidoll Pereira highlighted the community's concerns. “It has been seven days. People are against illegalities that are happening in this village. The motive of these non-Goans is to drive us Goans out of our State, and (BJP) is hand-in-the-glove with them. If something happens, we approach the panchayat, which itself is indulging in corruption. So whom do we go to?”
Former Loliem sarpanch Mohandas Lolienkar added, “The Regional Plan was scrapped when Goa Bachao Abhiyan protested. Goans will have to think when they will have to come on the road for each protest. They will have to think how many outsiders can be accommodated in the State. If this continues, then there will be panchas of non-Goan origin.”
Cortalim MLA Antonio Vas has been a consistent critic of the Bhutani project. “Since the beginning, I have been protesting against the Bhutani project and extending support to those who have been protesting against it.”
Olencio Simoes, a crusader leader of the GRE, pointed out the broader issues. “If the departments are not taking action, then the MLA should expose them. It is not about just one project. There is no proper water supply in the village. There is no STP. Sewage is released in the field. There is the issue of garbage, while electricity supply is irregular. In such a situation, who will provide infrastructure to large projects?”
Bhutani Infra's Response
In response to the show cause notice issued by the Sancoale Village Panchayat, Parmesh Construction Company Limited, also known as Bhutani Infra, has stated that they have obtained development permission and construction license and are in the process of securing other required permissions. The company noted that they applied for permissions for cutting of land under Section 17 A of the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Act on January 5 and for a water connection to the PWD on April 12.
Bhutani Infra was granted development permission by the Mormugao Planning and Development Authority (MPDA) on February 2, 2024. The Sancoale Village Panchayat issued a construction license on March 11, 2024. Additionally, Goa Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) granted registration under the Real Estate Development and Regulatory Authority on March 22, 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Premanand Naik and why is he on an indefinite hunger strike?
Premanand Naik is a former Sarpanch of Sancoale. He is on an indefinite hunger strike to protest against the Bhutani Infra Project, which he and many Goans believe is harmful to the community and the environment.
What is the Bhutani Infra Project and why is it controversial?
The Bhutani Infra Project is a development project in Sancoale, Goa. It is controversial because many locals believe it will lead to environmental degradation and displacement of Goans. The project has also been criticized for alleged illegalities and lack of proper regulatory approvals.
What is the Goa Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) and its role in this project?
Goa RERA is a regulatory body that oversees real estate development in Goa. It granted registration to the Bhutani Infra Project under the Real Estate Development and Regulatory Authority, which indicates that the project meets certain regulatory requirements.
What actions have the activists taken to oppose the project?
Activists have organized peaceful protests, held demonstrations, and called for the revocation of the construction license issued to Bhutani Infra. They are also highlighting the environmental and social impacts of the project.
What is the status of the project's environmental clearances?
Bhutani Infra has stated that they are in the process of obtaining the necessary environmental clearances. However, the project is still facing strong opposition from local residents and activists who are demanding a halt to the development.
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