PANAJI
Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas has opposed the Goa IPB and Single Window Clearance Bill 2024 arguing it will undermine the authority of local bodies besides the GIDC, TCP and panchayats.
After the first select committee meeting today, Viegas voiced concerns that the bill grants unprecedented power to the IPB.
“This bill strips power from local bodies and hands it over to the IPB, effectively sidelining the panchayats, GIDC, TCP and other departments,” Viegas said.
“If a panchayat rejects a proposal or a NOC, the bill allows the IPB to override that decision. The IPB can direct the panchayats to approve it, which completely undermines their authority,” he explained, citing a clause in the bill.
Viegas also raised concern over environmental risks claiming the bill opens doors to exploit eco-sensitive areas. “These bills create loopholes that could lead to the destruction of hills and fields,” he said.
He further expressed concerns about the lack of clarity regarding taxes under the proposed legislation.
In response to the bill, Vasco MLA Daji Salkar highlighted that recommendations have been made on how powers and revenue will be allocated among various authorities. He mentioned that a review meeting will be held to finalise decisions on the proposed amendments, which aim to extend the IPB’s authority over panchayats, municipalities, and land regulations.
“The recommendations focus on power and revenue distribution,” Salkar said. “We need to ensure that these amendments are thoroughly reviewed to balance the IPB’s authority with local governance structures.”
