Goa Congress MLA Slams Government’s Decision to Denotify Irrigation Land for Casino
Aldona Congress MLA Adv. Carlos Alvares Ferreira has criticized the state government’s decision to denotify 3.3 lakh sqm of irrigation land at Dhargal, Pernem for Delta Corp to set up a gaming zone, calling it “fraudulent and illegal”. Ferreira, a member of the Command Area Development Authority (CADA) for the Tillari irrigation project, expressed surprise and shock over the government’s move.
The MLA pointed out that the land in question was notified as a command area under CADA six months ago. He emphasized that the Command Area Development Act was enacted to protect farmers’ lands and provide irrigation facilities. Ferreira argued that denotifying the land for a casino would undermine the purpose of the Act and the government’s own agriculture policy.
Ferreira highlighted that the decision to denotify the land without following the proper procedure under the CADA Act would not withstand scrutiny in court. He stressed that the Cabinet’s decision to override the CADA board’s authority is illegal and that the government must follow the due process for denotification.
The MLA also questioned the government’s decision to waive Rs 5 crore in fees for Delta Corp, calling it “ridiculous” and “corrupt”. He demanded that the government explain who benefited from this waiver.
Ferreira’s criticism reflects the growing concerns about the government’s handling of land use and its impact on the state’s agriculture and environment. The opposition’s stance on this issue may lead to further debate and controversy in the state [1].
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