Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The High Court of Bombay at Goa has directed the State government to submit a consolidated report on measures taken against illegal constructions, along with details of compliance under recently enacted laws dealing with regularisation of unauthorised structures.
The directions came during the hearing of a Suo Motu PIL concerning rampant encroachments in paddy fields and no-development zones. The State informed the Bench that three fresh legislations could impact earlier demolition orders.
Taking note of this, the court allowed the government and local panchayats four weeks’ time to place a comprehensive status update on record.
Observing that multiple panchayats and affidavits were involved, the court instructed the State and the amicus curiae to compile precise information on the action taken, responses filed by authorities and parties concerned, and how the new laws are being factored in.
The Bench had earlier criticised the authorities for failing to curb widespread violations, warning that unchecked encroachments were threatening Goa’s delicate ecosystem. In its March order, the court had remarked that natural open spaces and agricultural fields were being converted illegally, roads and widening areas encroached upon, and no-development zones built upon without sanction, leading to a “wholesale change” of the State’s landscape.
Following the court’s rebuke, the government brought in an ordinance to safeguard certain unauthorised structures under conditions, later placing a Bill in the Assembly.
