Team Goemkarponn
VALPOI: The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Sattari Taluka Farmers’ Association has been convened for September 14 at the Lakshmibai Memorial Hall in Valpoi, with several contentious issues expected to dominate the proceedings. Members are gearing up to hold the current board of directors accountable for alleged mismanagement and neglect of the society’s assets.
The association, which has been active for decades and runs a self-service and banking counter, is facing mounting criticism from its members over the board’s handling of affairs in the past two years. One of the major grievances is the demolition of the society’s old building at Honda by unidentified persons — a matter on which the board has reportedly taken no action. Members allege that this inaction shows a complete failure in protecting the society’s property.
Another sore point is a rented shop at the society’s Valpoi head office. The board’s decision to lock the premises two months ago led to a legal dispute after the tenant approached the court. The court ruled in favor of the tenant and ordered the removal of the locks, creating further embarrassment for the society. Members claim the move was taken without foresight or proper planning.
The society also owns land in Keri, which members allege has been encroached upon due to the board’s negligence. They fear the property may be lost permanently if immediate steps are not taken.
Adding to the discontent, the removal of former managing director Suresh Gaonkar has left a leadership vacuum. Members argue that instead of appointing an experienced successor, the board chose an inexperienced individual who has struggled to manage the society’s operations effectively.
With multiple issues piling up, members are expected to raise these matters forcefully at the AGM. The meeting is likely to see heated discussions, with the board of directors pressed to explain their decisions and outline corrective measures.
