MAPUSA
In a controversial turn of events, Colvale Police on Sunday arrested Revolutionary Goans Party (RGP) member and activist Nubert Fernandes from Camurlim for allegedly assaulting and outraging the modesty of Sangeeta Pednekar, a panchayat member.
The arrest has sparked allegations of bias, with claims that Nubert's own complaint against Pednekar was ignored.
The incident reportedly occurred after a gram sabha meeting in Camurlim, attended by Nubert, Pednekar, and her husband, Abhay Pednekar.
According to Nubert’s legal counsel, Adv Yednesh Kotkar, tensions between the parties had been escalating due to Nubert’s vocal opposition to a controversial mega project in Ward 7, represented by Pednekar.
Nubert had also filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the project.
Adv Kotkar claimed that after the gram sabha, an argument ensued between Pednekar and Nubert, during which Pednekar allegedly slapped Nubert and tore his shirt.
Pednekar’s husband is also accused of verbally abusing the activist. Despite Nubert attempting to file a complaint, Kotkar alleged that Colvale Police refused to act on it. Instead, they reportedly entertained Pednekar’s allegations, leading to Nubert’s arrest.
“This is a pre-planned move and a clear case of framing my client,” Kotkar stated. “The police have shown blatant bias by ignoring Nubert’s complaint and arresting him on unsubstantiated allegations,” he added.
Repeated attempts to contact Colvale Police Inspector Vijay Rane for clarification went unanswered. Calls and messages to PI Rane remained unacknowledged until late Sunday night.
The arrest has triggered concerns among local activists, who argue that it undermines the fight against the mega project and raises questions about the impartiality of law enforcement.
Further developments in the case are awaited.
