Team Goemkarponn
CALANGUTE: In a decisive move aimed at addressing long-standing concerns of the local community, Calangute Sarpanch Joseph Sequeira declared on Sunday that the panchayat will cease issuing or renewing licenses for spas in the village, effective from the upcoming financial year. This announcement was made during a gram sabha meeting attended by local residents and panchayat members, held in Calangute on Sunday.
The decision to halt spa licenses is a direct response to the grievances raised by villagers, including former panchayat member Sudesh Mayekar, who questioned the panchayat’s enforcement of legal regulations on local businesses. Mayekar emphasized the need for stricter measures against businesses operating without proper facilities such as toilets and parking, and urged action against illegal advertising and business activities.
Sarpanch Sequeira reaffirmed the panchayat’s commitment to the resolution, stating, “From April 1, no new or renewed licenses will be issued for spas in Calangute. Any disputes can be taken to court.” However, some residents, like Agnel, expressed doubts about the legality of this decision, arguing that gram sabha resolutions cannot override existing legal provisions.
In addition to the spa license issue, the gram sabha also passed a resolution regarding construction projects. Former panchayat member Clotilda Braganza proposed that multi-dwelling constructions and hotel projects should only be licensed if the area has a properly tarred road at least 4.5 meters wide with a 1.5-meter setback on either side, aligning with the Regional Plan. Sequeira mentioned that two recent projects were rejected due to non-compliance with several requirements, including the lack of water and power facilities.
The meeting also discussed the proposed budget estimates for 2025-26, with local resident Antonio D’Souza expressing concerns about potential tax increases and their impact on the community, especially if the funds are not allocated to projects that directly benefit the village.
