PONDA, Feb. 16 -- Team Herald

Bhomkars, who have been protesting for years against the proposed highway expansion through the middle of their village, once again strongly opposed the plan during Sunday's gram sabha. They reiterated their demand for a bypass to avoid the destruction of their homes and temples.

Fearing the loss of their properties, the Bhomkars also called for the submission of the alignment plan for the highway expansion, which would include a flyover and affect their traditional houses and temples, stretching from Kali Mati-Bhoma to Corlim.

The meeting, chaired by Sarpanch Damodar Naik, saw Sanjay Naik, the leader of the Bhomkars, raising the issue. Locals expressed their dissatisfaction with a meeting held by local ML...