PANAJI
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has strongly condemned the alleged Curchorem sex scandal and demanded a court-monitored, time-bound, and independent investigation into the case. The party also alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Goa Police are attempting to suppress the matter to protect those involved.
An AAP delegation marched to the Panaji Police Headquarters today to submit a memorandum condemning the incident, which has sparked widespread concern across the state.
Addressing the media after submitting representation to DGP Alok Kumar, AAP Goa State President Valmiki Naik drew parallels between the Curchorem case and the alleged Miramar sex scandal. “The Curchorem case appears to be heading in the same direction as the Miramar case, where the matter was suppressed to such an extent that little to no information is available today. The victims are still awaiting justice. We will ensure that such a situation does not repeat and that fair action is taken,” he said.
The party further alleged that authorities initially failed to act and only responded following public outcry. AAP claimed that the police did not disclose the accused’s identity at the outset due to alleged political links, and that it was only after pressure from other councillors that details emerged.
AAP also accused the police of handling the case leniently. “Milder sections were initially applied. It was only after intervention by NGOs that stricter provisions under child protection laws, including the POCSO Act, were invoked,” Naik said.
The party criticised Damu Naik, BJP State President, for not condemning the incident. AAP alleged that he defended the accused’s family and downplayed their alleged involvement. The party further claimed that a councillor linked to the case attempted to influence the victim’s family not to file a complaint.
AAP reiterated its demand for a court-monitored investigation with fixed timelines and regular public updates on progress. It also warned that if appropriate action is not taken, the party will escalate the matter to the Goa Governor and raise the issue in Parliament.
AAP called for strict action against any attempt to reveal the identity of survivors or their families, including immediate action against any police personnel found responsible.
