Goa's Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced plans to amend the Regularisation of Unauthorised Construction Act to include structures on government-allotted land. This move addresses local concerns and aims to safeguard homes built under the 20-point programme and similar initiatives. Sawant assured no demolitions until the amendment is enacted. Revenue Minister Atanasio Monserrate emphasised local bodies' roles in the process. The amendment, influenced by Supreme Court observations, seeks to protect vulnerable communities while ensuring housing security for Goa's residents.
Goa's Chief Minister Pramod Sawant revealed plans to amend the Regularisation of Unauthorised Construction Act. This change aims to include structures built on government-allotted land, particularly those under the 20-point programme and similar initiatives. The amendment comes in response to concerns raised by local representatives about the fate of homes constructed on such land.
During a session in the assembly, Sawant assured that no unauthorised homes on government land would be demolished until the amendment is in place. This decision addresses the worries of many residents who fear losing their homes due to recent enforcement actions against illegal constructions. The Chief Minister emphasised the need for a legal framework to regularise these homes, stating that they brought an act for the regularisation of unauthorised structures on private land, and now they will extend this to government-allotted land.
The 20-point programme, initiated to bridge the gap between different socio-economic groups, primarily benefits communities such as Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC). Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai highlighted the importance of protecting these communities, urging the government to take proactive steps to safeguard their interests. He clarified that while illegal constructions should not be condoned, there is a need for affirmative action to protect those who have built homes under government schemes.
Revenue Minister Atanasio Monserrate supported the Chief Minister's statement, noting that local governing bodies and the town and country planning department would play a crucial role in the regularisation process. He mentioned that unauthorised constructions under the 20-point programme could be regularised if they meet specific criteria set by local regulations. This localised approach aims to empower communities to make decisions about their housing situations.
The Supreme Court's recent observations on unauthorised constructions have also influenced this decision. The court stated that deviations from approved plans do not necessarily warrant demolition, suggesting that a more nuanced approach is needed in handling such cases. This legal perspective may provide a foundation for the proposed amendments, allowing for a fairer assessment of homes built on government land.
As the government prepares to introduce these amendments, residents await further details on the process and criteria for regularisation. The move has been met with cautious optimism, as many hope it will provide stability for families living in homes that may have been deemed illegal. The government's commitment to addressing these issues reflects a broader effort to ensure housing security for vulnerable communities in Goa.
In conclusion, the proposed amendments to the Regularisation of Unauthorised Construction Act signify a crucial step towards addressing the housing needs of those who have built homes on government-allotted land. With the focus on inclusivity and community empowerment, Goa's government aims to create a more equitable environment for its residents.
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