OZARIM: The Ozari Shetkari Nagarik Kruti Samiti has called for the removal of the present Secretary of the Village Panchayat of Ozarim, alleging persistent grievances over her functioning, conduct and handling of villagers’ queries.
In a memorandum submitted to the Director of Panchayats, Goa, through the Block Development Officer, Pernem, the committee said villagers had raised concerns repeatedly during Gram Sabha meetings since the Secretary assumed charge.
According to the committee, villagers often do not receive clear answers to their queries at the first instance and are allegedly not given proper guidance regarding the documents required for various services. The committee claimed that villagers are later asked to submit additional documents, affidavits or other requirements, forcing them to make repeated visits to the Panchayat office.
The memorandum also alleges that some villagers have experienced discourteous or disrespectful communication, which the committee says has discouraged people from approaching the Panchayat office.
The committee further referred to a Gram Sabha resolution in which villagers reportedly expressed their opposition to the continuation of the present Secretary and sought her replacement or removal.
The committee has urged the authorities to verify the Gram Sabha proceedings and resolutions, examine the Secretary’s functioning and conduct, and determine whether proper Panchayat procedures and applicable rules are being followed.
It has also demanded that villagers be provided clear information about required documents and be treated with dignity, courtesy and fairness.
The committee has warned that if no appropriate and timely action is taken, villagers will hold a peaceful and lawful protest outside the Ozarim Village Panchayat Office at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, August 28.
The committee said the proposed protest is intended to peacefully highlight the villagers’ grievances and seek administrative intervention, and not to disrupt Panchayat functioning or create a law-and-order situation.
