PANAJI: A tense atmosphere prevailed in Cunchelim, Mapusa, as authorities demolished 30 of 36 unauthorised houses built on govt land on Tuesday.
The land has been designated for a multi-faith burial ground and cemetery. Several individuals are accused of illegally occupying this land and building homes without permission.
Despite emotional pleas and protests from affected families, the demolition proceeded under Section 6 of the Goa (Land Prohibition on Construction) Act, 1995.
A large police force was deployed, but they had difficulty controlling the agitated families.
Prior to the demolition, the Mapusa deputy collector had initiated action under Section 6 of the Goa (Land Prohibition on Construction) Act, 1995, and had issued notices to the residents occupying these illegal structures.
“We have completed the demolition of 30 unauthorised constructions. At present, the court has given relief for few structures. We will review the court's directive and proceed with the demolition of all remaining structures based on the order’s specifications,” a senior official said.
Residents expressed anger and frustration over the demolition drive. A man was seen desperately appealing to officials to prevent the demolition. He said, “Where was the administration when the houses were being built? Why didn’t they stop us then? This is inhumane and unfair to poor people like me.”
An elderly woman sough help from the local MLA was told that she would have to comply with govt orders to leave her home. “I told him that we even have voting cards and we have voted for him, yet he did not hear my plea,” she stated.
Another woman said she purchased 100sqm of land from a private seller, acting on advice from a local councillor. Last month, she and others approached Mapusa police and sought action against the alleged ‘agents’ who, they claim, defrauded them of Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 per sqm falsely promising protection from eviction.