Pernem, Goa: A group of irate residents from Morjim took to the streets, marching to the panchayat office to confront the village council regarding the Pernem draft zoning plan, demanding its complete abandonment.
Led by Mayur Shetgaonkar of Green and Clean Morjim, the locals voiced their concerns to Sarpanch Mukesh Gadekar, Deputy Sarpanch Pavan Morje, and Panchas Vilas Morje, Mandar Poke, and Surekha Amit Shetgaonkar.
The meeting was marked by intense discussions and residents questioning Sarpanch Mukesh Gadekar’s role. They also inquired why he didn’t wait until Monday when Chief Minister Pramod Sawant was expected to announce his decision on the controversial land zoning plan.
Moreover, Gadekar was questioned about his meeting with former MLA Dayanand Sopte, which raised concerns over the exclusion of local MLA Jit Arolkar. The residents insisted that Gadekar should annul all land conversions in Morjim and have the zoning plan entirely revoked, or he should step down from his position.
Gajanan Shetgaonkar emphasized that the government should activate the 100-bed hospital constructed by former Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar. “This hospital should be operational, and 50% of jobs should be reserved for locals. Only then will we reconsider the zoning plan,” said Gajanan Shetgaonkar. Mayur Shetgaonkar stressed that the panchayat should prioritize local issues and work towards their resolution rather than seeking publicity.
“The panchayat should thoroughly assess the draft zoning plan’s impact on locals. Morjim is grappling with water shortages, narrow roads, power cuts, and no one seems to address these issues,” added Mayur Shetgaonkar.
Amid the controversy surrounding the draft zoning plan, Mayur Shetgaonkar issued a warning, stating, “The draft zoning plan must be revoked. We will continue our protest and escalate it if the plan is not discarded.”
Morjim Sarpanch Mukesh Gadekar assured the residents of his support, stating, “I am working to persuade the government to cancel the current zoning plan and collaborate with the people of Pernem taluka to devise a new one.”
Regarding his meeting with former MLA Dayanand Sopte, Gadekar clarified that the minister had invited the Morjim panchayat. “Former MLA Dayanand Sopte intended to meet all nine panchayats, so why should Morjim panchayat decline? That’s why we met the minister and discussed the issue,” explained Gadekar.
The Morjim Sarpanch urged locals to stand united and refrain from selling their land to outsiders.
Subsequently, the panchayat resolved to submit a proposal to the government, requesting the cancellation of the draft zoning plan.
