PANAJI
The simmering protests against a mega real estate project at Karapur-Saravan have claimed their first political victim: Deputy Sarpanch Ayesha Bi announced her resignation on Tuesday, citing pressure linked to the controversial development.
Speaking to reporters, Ayesha said she was stepping down as villagers had approached her demanding her signature on notices opposing the project.
“I cannot continue under such pressure,” she declared.
The agitation, led largely by local women, has entered its 37th day, with demonstrations staged daily near the project site and villagers voicing fears of displacement and environmental damage.
Tensions escalated last weekend when Ayesha’s husband was heckled at the panchayat office. Protesters surrounded him, forcing police to intervene and escort him out safely.
The incident underscores the intensity of the opposition and the strain on elected representatives caught in the crossfire.
Ayesha's resignation signals the pressure grassroots leaders struggle with facing mounting public anger. With the standoff showing no signs of easing, the Karapur-Saravan project has become the latest flashpoint, leaving local governance shaken.
