Some opposition leaders gained from Sec 17(2), says Vishwajit

Panaji : Town and Country Planning (TCP) Minister Vishwajit Rane on Friday said that Sections 17(2) and 39(A) of the TCP Act will remain in place, while dismissing opposition demands for his resignation as “politically motivated”.

Reacting to Thursday’s protests, Rane said that he was being targeted because “he is a strong BJP leader”.

“You cannot run a government based on protests. I have already made my stand clear on Section 17(2) of the TCP Act,” he said.

He alleged that some opposition leaders have benefited from the same provision they are now opposing.

“I have known Yuri Alemao (opposition leader) since he was a young boy. I will reveal names at the proper forum, and the assembly is the right place for it,” he said.

Rane said that the government has six weeks to approach the Supreme Court following a stay on the matter.

“The matter is sub judice. The government is within its rights to approach another court,” he said.

Acknowledging public concerns, Rane stated that the issue requires careful consideration as it involves people’s sentiments.