Goa govt shielding officer in religious site demolition: Opp

The opposition benches comprising Leader of Opposition Pratapsingh Rane, independent legislator Vijay Sardesai and Congress legislator Reginaldo Aleixo Lourenco accused state Revenue Minister Fransic D'Souza of protecting the sub- divisional officer.

Sardesai alleged that the SDO had misinterpreted the order of Supreme Court, which had asked to frame policy on the roadside illegal structure, and demolished the cross which was worshipped by the local Christian population.

"The action has hurt sentiments of the Christians which comprise 27 per cent of the population," he alleged.

Responding to the allegations, D'Souza refused to assure action against the SDO and said Sardesai was free to move to the court with the petition.

"There are authorities. I cannot take short cuts," he said.

As per the reply tabled on the floor of the House, the government has already framed a policy for roadside illegal structure and invited suggestions and objections.

The one-month long Assembly session began today.