Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Disability Rights Association of Goa (DRAG) has demanded the immediate suspension of the Shiroda Panchayat Secretary, accusing him of harassing a person with disability and defying directives of the Chief Minister and the State Disability Commissioner.
According to DRAG, despite a government order to clear house repair permissions within three days, the secretary failed to act on the application of Sylvester Gracias, a 100% disabled person, even after the Disability Commissioner directed clearance within 24 hours. DRAG warned that it would hold the secretary responsible if any damage occurs due to the delay.
The association also urged that legal expenses for defending panchayat secretaries in such cases should be deducted from their salaries and not panchayat funds.
In addition, DRAG has reminded authorities about its seven long-pending demands, warning of protests during Purple Fest 2025 if they remain unresolved. The group has also filed a discrimination complaint against Director of Education, Mr. Zingde, alleging exclusion of children with disabilities and special educators from the State Teachers’ Day function.
