Massive Confrontation at Velsao: Villagers Halt RVNL Works Over Land Dispute
Velsao, Goa: A tense standoff erupted this morning at Primeirovaddo, Velsao, as villagers confronted Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) over an alleged encroachment on their ancestral land. The incident, which began with a small police presence, escalated as reinforcements from Vasco and Verna arrived following heated exchanges between villagers and RVNL officials.
Villagers Form Human Shield
The confrontation started when RVNL arrived at the site with only four Goa Police officers. By 9:30 AM, the situation intensified as villagers physically blocked the construction work by forming a human shield, preventing the company’s heavy machinery from advancing.
To counter the resistance, RVNL called for additional police support. However, as the company attempted to break through the blockade using heavy machinery, the villagers remained firm in their protest.
Legal Battle and Police Intervention
During the standoff, villagers informed PI Melson that the matter was already sub judice, as they had moved the District Court in Margão based on advice from the Inspector of Survey and Land Records (ISLR).
As tensions rose, PI Melson directly questioned RVNL official Sateesh regarding the ownership documents. In a critical moment, Sateesh admitted that the railways had no title documents to prove ownership of the land. This revelation strengthened the villagers’ position, leading to intense discussions between the police, villagers, and RVNL officials.
Leader of Opposition Steps In
The Leader of Opposition (LOP) intervened over the phone, engaging in discussions with the police. Following his intervention and legal arguments from the villagers, the police directed RVNL to withdraw their machinery. By 1:30 PM, RVNL’s equipment was pulled back, and the police also dispersed, marking a temporary victory for the villagers.
Ongoing Land Dispute
The villagers remain confident in their claim over the land, backed by title documents, whereas RVNL has failed to provide any proof of ownership. With legal proceedings underway, the dispute is far from over, and further developments are expected in the coming days.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
