NT Reporter | Mapusa
The Mapusa Advocates’ Forum, which has been opposing the shifting of the district courts from Mapusa to Merces citing hardship to the public, received relief on Thursday after the government agreed to recall its decision to relocate the courts.
The Forum held an extraordinary meeting on Wednesday evening to discuss the proposed move to the new complex at Merces. It resolved to approach all North Goa MLAs and submit representations expressing opposition to the relocation.
A delegation led by Forum president Adv Paresh Rao met Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation Chairman and Calangute MLA Michael Lobo, Siolim MLA Delilah Lobo and Deputy Speaker and Mapusa MLA Joshua D’Souza on Thursday. The delegation conveyed the difficulties the public would face if the courts were shifted. “After raising the issue with the Chief Minister, the Mapusa MLA told us that the CM has agreed to recall the decision of shifting the courts from Mapusa. Even the Advocate General has conveyed that the Chief Minister has agreed to recall his decision,” said Rao.
The Forum expressed satisfaction over the development and said it will explore the possibility of constructing a new building at the existing court premises to house all courts, a multi-level parking facility, residential quarters and other necessary infrastructure.
“We had a discussion with the Calangute MLA about the availability of
land at the existing court where a new building can be constructed that can include courtrooms, residential quarters for judges, parking and other facilities. So the issue will be resolved,” said Rao.
“The Calangute MLA said that GSIDC has funds, so if the infrastructure project is approved by the state government then it can be taken up,” he said.
Rao said they want the government to construct an independent court building, which will address public concerns and also help reduce traffic congestion.
