Team Goemkarponn
MARGAO: Congress leader Chirag Naik on Friday began a hunger strike opposing the Margao Municipal Council’s proposal to construct a two-storeyed building at the Margao Municipal Garden, demanding that the project be scrapped immediately.
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao extended support to Naik, describing the proposed construction as unnecessary. He pointed to existing parking constraints in the city and stressed the social and emotional importance of the garden for residents, while accusing the government of disregarding public sentiment.
Margao police objected to the protest after Naik set up a mattress at the site. However, the Congress leader continued his hunger strike despite being asked to remove it, maintaining his opposition to the proposed project.
The controversy also drew reaction from Vijai Sardesai, who said councillors affiliated with his party had opposed the proposal but the decision was pushed through using majority support. He alleged that the move was being forced without adequate discussion.
Sardesai called for transparency regarding the purpose of the planned building, stating that the Aga Khan Garden is an important public space for Margao. He also highlighted that the town is already facing severe parking issues and warned that additional activity at the garden would further strain available space.
He further claimed that more such projects could follow, alleging that the Margao master plan was prepared without sufficient public consultation. Sardesai contrasted the situation with earlier planning processes, saying due procedure had been followed in the past while preparing regional plans.
He also questioned the council’s inability to resolve the persistent parking problem in the commercial capital, and urged authorities to clarify the intent and necessity of the proposed construction.
