Goa's minister addresses pending mundkarial cases and protections

Goa's revenue minister, Atanasio 'Babush' Monserrate, recently spoke about the ongoing mundkarial cases in the state. He noted that without a sunset clause, new cases continue to arise. Since 2022, 2,323 cases have been resolved, while 2,408 remain pending. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant addressed concerns about landlords cutting off water and electricity. He stated that mundkars can report these actions to the police. Monserrate added that as of October 2022, there were 2,845 pending cases and 1,886 new cases filed since then. Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai highlighted that some cases have been pending for five to ten years. He urged action against local officials for not progressing these cases. Monserrate agreed to investigate the matter further. Mayem MLA Premendra Shet suggested amending the Goa, Daman and Diu Mundkars (Protection from Eviction) Act, 1975. He believes it would better protect mundkars' rights. Monserrate explained that the act is designed to prevent unlawful eviction and allows mundkars to buy their homes. He also emphasized that mundkars have rights to essential services like water and electricity. According to the act, if a mundkar's services are cut off without proper reason, they have six months to seek help from a local official. If a potential eviction occurs, the official can investigate and potentially protect the mundkar's residence.