Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Sep 28: The proposal to establish an IIT campus in Codar village has been officially shelved, following firm resistance from the local community. Minister Subhash Shirodkar confirmed the government’s decision, acknowledging that while some groups have historically resisted development initiatives, the administration has chosen to honor the villagers’ objections.

Goa Forward Party president Vijai Sardesai celebrated the outcome as a clear victory for the residents, stating, “The united stand of Codar’s people has triumphed. This is a powerful example of public will overcoming BJP’s overreach. Goa Forward remains committed to defending Goans against injustice.”

At the same time, RGP chief Manoj Parab highlighted the impracticality of the project, pointing out that a fully operational IIT requires 500 acres—an area Goa cannot afford to allocate without damaging its forests and eco-sensitive regions. He urged the government to officially notify the Centre about this limitation.