HC directs GCZMA to verify legality of Club Paradiso

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HC directs GCZMA to verify legality of Club Paradiso

Panaji, Dec 12 Responding to a petition filed by one Mr Rutul Sharma challenging the inaction of GCZMA and alleging non-payment of lease amount to the government by the discotheque ‘Club Paradiso’, the High Court has asked the GCZMA and Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) to look into the matter.

The Bench consisting of Mr Justice DB Bhosale and Mr Justice NA Britto has asked GCZMA to decide whether the structure is legal or illegal within a period of 8 weeks from today. It is also made clear that GCZMA can take appropriate action if the same is found to be illegal and in violation of CRZ regulation.

Pertaining to the lease amount, the court has asked the petitioner to make a representation to GTDC, within a week’s time. It is further directed that if any representation is made the same should be decided within a period of 12 weeks after giving opportunity to both the parties.

It is alleged by the petitioner that one Mr Nandagopal Kudchadkar is carrying out an illegal commercial activity of running a discotheque and night cub styled as ‘Club Paradiso’, under the garb of running a restaurant.

Mr Sharma stated that the illegal structure has been erected in close proximity to the beach and hence is in violation of the CRZ III area. The petitioner approched the GCZMA pointing out the illegalities; however the authorities took no action.

The petitioner also obtained information under the RTI Act and learnt that Mr Kudchadkar had taken the property on an annual lease rent of Rs 5,07,000. However till date no lease deal has been executed between them.

According to the petitioner, till July 6, 2007 there are arrears of Rs 15,32,250 and no action has been initiated by GTDC for recovery of dues. Now, with the direction of the High Court, the GCZMA has to decide the illegality of the structure within a period of 8 weeks.

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