Team Goemkarponn
MARGAO: Tension prevailed at Gandhi Market on Monday after a dispute over sopo collection led to protests by traders against authorities conducting shop measurements.
Officials from the Margao Municipal Council, accompanied by police personnel, began measuring shops as part of an exercise linked to revision and possible increase in sopo rates. Thed move triggered immediate opposition from shopkeepers, who alleged that the measurements were being carried out without prior notice.
Traders objected to the exercise, claiming that the fresh measurements could result in a steep hike in fees, further burdening their businesses. Several shopkeepers gathered at the site and demanded that the authorities halt the process until proper consultation was held.
The situation escalated when former minister and Gandhi Market leader Babu Ajgaonkar reached the spot and raised strong objections. He questioned the need for the measurement drive and urged officials to stop the exercise, stating that traders should be taken into confidence before any decision affecting them is implemented.
Eyewitnesses reported heated exchanges between traders and officials, following which police intervened to control the situation and prevent further escalation. The presence of police helped restore order even as arguments continued for some time.
Despite the protests, officials maintained that the measurements were part of a routine process connected to sopo collection and administrative assessment.
The incident has sparked fresh concern among traders at one of Margao’s busiest markets, with many demanding clarity on the proposed revision and assurance that their livelihoods will not be affected.
