Goa, Dec. 28 -- On Sunday, Chimbel villagers launched a desperate hunger strike against the controversial Unity Mall project, accusing authorities of flouting a Panjim Sessions Court stay. The protest intensified on Saturday as demonstrators claim the local panchayat issued a construction licence despite the judicial order remaining in force until January 8, 2026.

The Unity Mall, proposed by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) on the ecologically sensitive Toyyar Lake wetland, has faced fierce opposition. Chimbel Village Panchayat initially denied permission after three gram sabha resolutions rejected the plan. GTDC challenged this before the Tiswadi Block Development Officer (BDO), who ordered licence issuance within 24 hours...