PANJIM, Jan. 24 -- Bowing down to consistent pressure from the merchants' association and Opposition parties, the State government has withdrawn the controversial Goa Municipalities (amendment) Ordinance 2020.

"Whereas, the Legislative Assembly of Goa is not in session and the Governor of Goa is satisfied that circumstances exist which render it necessary for him to take immediate action. Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by Article 213 of the Constitution of India, the Governor of Goa is pleased to promulgate the following Ordinance namely - This Ordinance may be called the Goa Municipalities (Amendment) Withdrawal Ordinance, 2021," states the notification released by the Department of Law.

The decision comes at a tim...