Demolition Order Issued
The popular Curlies restaurant, a well-known establishment in Goa, found itself at the center of a legal storm following an order for its demolition. This
action was reportedly initiated due to violations concerning environmental regulations, specifically relating to green norms. The authorities had deployed personnel to the site, preparing for the demolition scheduled for the morning of September 9. This development stemmed from a dismissal of an appeal by the restaurant's owner, Linet Nunes, against a prior demolition notice issued by the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA). The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had previously dismissed the appeal, paving the way for the GCZMA's demolition order to be executed.
Supreme Court Intervention
In a significant turn of events, the Supreme Court of India stepped in to halt the demolition process of Curlies restaurant. The apex court issued a stay on the demolition, providing a temporary reprieve for the establishment. However, this stay came with a crucial condition: the restaurant is prohibited from conducting any commercial activities on its premises until the court makes a final decision on the matter. This directive was aimed at ensuring that no further violations or irreversible changes occur while the legal challenge is being heard. The court has scheduled a further hearing for September 16 to deliberate on the petition that challenges the demolition order, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Past Controversy Lingers
The Curlies restaurant has previously been in the news due to its alleged connection to the unfortunate demise of Sonali Phogat, a Bharatiya Janata Party leader and former Bigg Boss contestant. Reports indicated that Phogat was allegedly drugged at the restaurant prior to her death. Following these allegations, the restaurant's owner, Edwin Nunes, was arrested on August 27. He was later granted conditional bail, which included restrictions on visiting Curlies and a requirement to obtain permission for any travel outside Goa. This past incident casts a shadow over the current legal proceedings, adding another layer of complexity to the situation surrounding the establishment.
