Chimbel locals complain against sarpanch over delay in holding gram sabha

NT Reporter

Panaji

Villagers of Chimbel have filed a complaint against sarpanch Sandesh Atmaram Shirodkar, alleging failure to conduct the mandatory ordinary gram sabha scheduled for October 2025, even after a delay of more than three months.

The complaint, filed by Chimbel Manch secretary Tukaram Kunkalker, was submitted on Monday to Tiswadi Block Development Officer Anil Dhumaskar.

In the complaint, the villagers alleged that the sarpanch had violated the Panchayat Raj Act by not convening the October gram sabha, which is required by law.

“It has now been over three months since the Chimbel panchayat failed to conduct the scheduled ordinary gram sabha for October, and this delay has hindered us, the villagers, from discussing crucial developmental activities, funds, and welfare schemes provided by both the Goa and central governments,” the complaint states.

The complaint also raises concerns about the functioning of the current secretary, Hanumant Borkar.

The villagers alleged
that the secretary is unable to record gram sabha proceedings on the same day, as mandated by law.

Stating that delays in recording the minutes could lead to manipulation, the complainant requested the BDO to appoint a competent officer to record the proceedings immediately during future gram sabhas, the letter said.