HC Orders Goa Government to Investigate Misuse of Socorro Housing Scheme for Low-Income Families

PANAJI: The High Court has expressed concern over the alleged misuse of the 20-point programme aimed at constructing homes for economically weaker sections in Socorro village.

It has directed the deputy collector of Bardez to launch an inquiry into unauthorized constructions under the scheme and submit a detailed report to the North Goa collector within six months.

A division bench of Justices Bharati Dangre and Nivedita Mehta observed that the programme, though designed with good intentions, had been “misused” in Socorro, where “multiple encroachments” and violations of permissible construction limits have taken place. The bench has also instructed the government to initiate action against those responsible.

The court stated that if the law provides for regularising certain structures, the government should not hesitate to do so where applicable. However, it emphasized that the authorities must ensure compliance and hold violators accountable.

The matter was brought to the court by petitioner Nilesh Chari, who alleged that the authorities — including the local panchayat — failed to act against illegal constructions.

He pointed out that several houses exceeded the permissible building limits and were either sold or rented out for commercial purposes, contrary to the scheme’s original intent.

In response, Advocate General Devidas Pangam informed the court that the government acknowledges the issue and will initiate an inquiry through the Bardez deputy collector.

He assured the bench that action would be taken in accordance with the principles of natural justice, following on-ground inspections and a thorough examination of the records.

Considering that the matter concerns residential spaces currently occupied by families, Pangam stressed the need for a careful approach. He added that the authorities would require adequate time to complete all procedural steps.

According to an affidavit submitted by the deputy collector and sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) of Bardez, while 31 allotments were originally sanctioned under the housing scheme, there are now 67 structures standing on Survey Number 12/1 in Socorro village.

Of these, only nine are occupied by the families of original beneficiaries. The remaining structures appear to have no connection with the official allotment records, raising concerns of illegal occupation.

The Socorro panchayat secretary confirmed that action has already begun against violators. Site inspection notices have been served, and inspections are being conducted in phases.

Following this, show-cause notices will be issued. The entire process, including final actions, is expected to be completed within six months.

Meanwhile, Chari has sought cancellation of plot allotments where unauthorised construction has taken place. He has also requested that trade licences issued for commercial operations in these structures be revoked, and the illegal constructions be demolished.