Porvorim (Goa): In what could lead to first rift between the coalition partners, the Manohar Parikar led cabinet on Wednesdaydecided to hand over the charge of Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) to Urban Development (UD) headed by BJP Minister Francis D’Souza.

The RERA was initially with the Ministry for Town and Country Planning (TCP) under Vijay Sardessai, the coalition partner in the government. He had even announced to notify the rules and appoint authority to regulate the real estate sector in Goa.

While it is learnt that Sardessai expressed resentment over the decision during the cabinet meeting, Chief Minister explained that the decision comes following Central Government’s directions that the real estate regulatory authority be allocated to the Ministry of Urban Development.

When contacted, Sardessai refused to comment stating “please speak to Chief Minister”.

On the other hand, when contacted, Minister for UD Francis D’Souza said that the ministry of urban development has been made the parent body for the RERA following directions from the Central Government.

D’Souza, former Minister for TCP, said that during his tenure the TCP had drafted RERA rules and that he intends to notify the same. “TCP had drafted proper regulations under RERA. We had consultation with stakeholders on the same. I intend to notify the same rules as soon as possible,” he said.

According to Section 85 of the Act, rules are required to be notified by the regulatory authority within three months of its formation.

The Central Act- Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act got rolled out from May 1 onwards.

Team TNV