Panaji: A major dispute over the Rs 15 RoRo ferry fare and frequent changes in the sarpanch post dominated the Chorao gram sabha held on Sunday.
Villagers strongly opposed the panchayat’s decision on the ferry fare, demanding accountability. “When we had asked for the fare to be rolled back, why did the panchayat take a resolution to fix it at Rs 15?” asked a villager during discussion. Many insisted that the fare resolution be withdrawn, seeking clarity on why their earlier request was ignored.
They requested that a joint meeting be held during the next gram sabha with both the panchayat members and the local MLA to discuss the issue, warning that if such a meeting does not take place, they will proceed with the mass meeting that was previously planned but later called off. “We are giving time until 15th September,” the villagers said.
They further demanded that any resolution passed in the gram sabha should not be overruled or altered by later panchayat decisions. Concerns were also raised over the lack of continuity in leadership due to frequent changes in the sarpanch every six to nine months. “There is no point in changing the sarpanch like a game of musical chairs,” said a villager, adding, “We want a resolution passed today that once a sarpanch is elected, he should complete the full five-year term.”
The panchayat, however, said such matters could only be treated as suggestions, not formal resolutions.
The issue of stray cattle was also discussed. Villagers complained about the large number of untagged animals roaming on the roads. “Animals should be tagged so that their
movement can be tracked,” said a villager. The sarpanch replied, “A vehicle has been arranged and is moving around the village to lift stray cattle from the roads.”
In another demand, villagers asked for NGO head Kamlakant Tari to be called to a meeting and questioned about their collaboration and work in the village. “We want an urgent meeting with the NGO within 15 days to discuss the issue of stray cattle,” the villagers said.
