The demolition dispute involving unauthorised structures at a Morjim-based beach club has once again come into focus after Carrick Bend Realty LLP approached the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA), alleging violations of the principles of natural justice. The firm contended that it was not served any formal notice before the Authority directed the Deputy Collector and Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) to proceed with demolition.
The review plea was heard by the GCZMA on Thursday, during which the operators argued that they were denied an opportunity to be heard prior to the issuance of demolition directions. According to the petitioners, the Authority directly passed orders without adhering to basic procedural safeguards, thereby infringing upon their right to due process.
Authority Schedules Next Hearing
Following submissions from both sides, the GCZMA has fixed the matter for further hearing in January 2026. The Authority has not stayed its principal demolition order, and enforcement actions remain formally in force.
Complainant Opposes Review Petition
Strongly opposing the review plea, complainant Mayur Shetgaonkar, represented by advocate Sherwyn Correira, submitted that the same structures in question had already been demolished in 2024 for multiple violations of coastal regulations. Despite this, the operators allegedly reconstructed the very same structures at the same location, prompting renewed action by the Authority.
Correira argued that the GCZMA’s power to review its own orders is confined strictly to procedural aspects and does not extend to reassessing the merits of the case. On this basis, he submitted that the review application was not maintainable under law.
Prior Demolition and Alleged Reconstruction
According to the complainant, the earlier demolition order had already been complied with in 2024, and therefore no prejudice had been caused to the operators. Correira contended that the reconstruction of structures at the same site amounted to a fresh violation, making the question of natural justice irrelevant in the present context.
“Despite the earlier demolition, the operators rebuilt the structures at the same site. Therefore, the question of natural justice does not arise, as the structures were already under scrutiny of the GCZMA,” Correira told The Goan.
Details of the Demolition Order
At its 464th meeting held on July 10, 2025, the GCZMA had directed Carrick Bend Realty LLP to demolish eight unauthorised structures at the Morjim site. These included high RCC plinth beams, masonry walls, MS channel structures with GI sheet roofing, RCC tanks on the western side of the property, and other constructions.
The Authority also suspended all permissions previously granted to the project until full compliance with the demolition order. The structures were located across survey numbers 118, 118/0, and 118/1-S-1 to 118/1-S-4, with directions to restore the area to its original condition within 30 days.
Enforcement Delays and Continued Operation
Subsequently, on September 7, the GCZMA issued a formal directive to the Bardez Deputy Collector, instructing demolition within 30 days. However, despite the lapse of the stipulated deadline, the structures reportedly remain standing and the beach club continues operations.
The complainant also urged the Authority to restrain the operators from carrying out any commercial activity while the review petition is pending. However, the GCZMA declined to interfere with its principal demolition order.
NGT Petition Adds Pressure
Meanwhile, a petition filed before the National Green Tribunal (NGT), Western Zone Bench, remains pending. The petition alleges inaction by authorities in enforcing the GCZMA’s demolition order, further intensifying scrutiny over coastal regulation compliance and administrative accountability.
The case highlights ongoing challenges in enforcing coastal regulation norms, balancing procedural fairness with environmental protection. As the review plea awaits further hearing, the outcome is expected to have broader implications for coastal governance and regulatory enforcement in Goa.
