Oppn MLAs question govt’s move, rush to well of House, marshalled out
PANAJI
The Goa Town and Country Planning (Amendment) Bill, 2024 was passed in the Goa Legislative Assembly on Wednesday amidst ruckus by the Opposition legislators who questioned the government’s decision to replace the now-deleted 16B with a new section 39A of the TCP Act.
Opposition MLAs protested by rushing to the well of the House during the Bill’s passage but were escorted out by marshals. Minister Vishwajit Rane, who tabled the Bill on Monday, explained that 39A replaces 16B and ensures that eco-sensitive zones won’t be converted. He also assured the House that 7,000 applications under 16B will be tabled on the floor of the House after the government completes its compilation, while also assuring to constitute an expert committee.
During discussions, ruling legislators supported the Bill whereas the Opposition questioned the fate of applications under the previous section, matter which is pending before the High Court of Bombay at Goa.
Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao sought to know the expected revenue to the government under the new section and whether notices would be sent to 16B applicants.
Congress legislator Altone D’Costa demanded clarity on the revenue collected by the government under 16B while AAP MLA Venzy Viegas labelled the new section arbitrary. The AAP legislator also cited past misuse. “16B was a criminal waste of money. It is deleted but what is the reason for introducing 39A?” he further questioned.
Replying to these concerns, Rane explained that a stay was granted to 16B by the Court as there were attempts to convert eco-sensitive zones, salt pans, and buffer zones, etc.
“I have noted down all the points… there is no rush in doing anything… but everybody wants to go to the Court so we cannot stop them… they have the right to do so and if someone wants to challenge anything, do so. What is the problem? But if we are correct in what we do and have a judicious method, then we will go ahead,” the minister replied, despite which the Opposition continued their protest after which they were marshalled out.
