Xeldem p’yat land grab meet ends abruptly

Margao: The discussion at Xeldem village panchayat on the alleged land grab case at Pontebandul, Chandegal, ended abruptly on Friday when the respondent left the meeting without answering key questions about construction permissions.

The meeting to address the allegations concerning the 13,000 sqm agricultural property under “Devi Sateri Devasthan Xeldem” was attended by both the complainant and respondent, the sarpanch, and a panchayat member. The sarpanch requested relevant documents from both parties and the complainant submitted the documents and explained the matter, while the respondent presented a sub-lease deed. Both sides presented their arguments.

When the respondent was asked about permissions for constructing a new house on the property, he left without a response. The case involves allegations that the land transaction was made without notifying the temple committee and devasthan administrator, Quepem. Questions were raised over the validity of perpetual lease agreements executed without govt approval or consent from the devasthan committee and administrator.

The matter was placed before the panchayat on Feb 11, where a resolution was passed to conduct a discussion. As the respondent left the meeting abruptly, the incomplete discussion left the matter unresolved.

Stakeholders have questioned the panchayat’s jurisdiction to hold discussions on the matter. They demanded that the mamlatdar, who is the temple property custodian, conduct an enquiry and submit a report to govt.