Anjuna residents confront the local police over their failure to arrest the accused involved in the gram sabha assault. Anjuna PI Suraj Gawas and other officials are present. Captured by : Agnelo Pereira
MAPUSA
The quaint village of Anjuna is simmering with outrage as residents allege police inaction following a shocking assault at the recent gram sabha.
The incident, which unfolded in full view of police officers and village officials, has sparked accusations of political interference in law enforcement and calls for justice from an aggrieved community.
The assault occurred during a heated discussion over the issue of loud music in the coastal village, a topic that has long divided residents.
Dr Inacio Fernandes, a vocal advocate for stricter noise control, became the target of a violent attack allegedly orchestrated by politically connected individuals.
Video footage from the event shows chaos breaking out as women and even a police official were pushed to the ground during the melee.
Despite clear evidence, including video recordings and eyewitness accounts, villagers claim the police have failed to act decisively.
“The assault happened right in front of the police. Women were shoved, and even an officer was pushed, yet the accused has not been arrested,” said local resident Thaddeus D’Souza.
Adding to the frustration, D’Souza revealed that the police filed a counter-case based on what he described as "false allegations" made by the accused, further delaying justice.
One of the prime accused, Gajanan Tilve, is known for his political connections, leading residents to believe that undue influence is shielding him and others involved.
"This wasn’t a spontaneous outburst; it was a pre-planned attack to silence those raising critical issues. Dr Fernandes was targeted because he has been a crusader against loud music that disrupts our lives,” said Jawish Moniz, a resident of nearby Vagator.
The gram sabha attack has shaken the community, especially as it took place in the presence of the village sarpanch, secretary, and ward members.
The brazen nature of the incident has left locals questioning the role of law enforcement in maintaining order.
“What happened on Sunday was an attempt to suppress the voices of people standing up for their rights,” Moniz added.
Activists and community leaders are rallying behind the residents.
President of Goenche Fudle Pilge Khatir, Jack Mascarenhas called the assault a result of ignorance and apathy.
“We need to support Anjuna’s residents in their fight for justice. Quality of life should never be compromised for economic gains,” Mascarenhas said, urging villagers not to lose hope.
For many, the incident also underscores a broader issue of systemic negligence. “We’ve never opposed music or businesses,” said Janet Morais, another local. “But the loud music is unbearable. We respect the right to earn, but it must not come at the cost of our peace. This movement has been misrepresented to discredit us,” she added.
The community’s demand is simple yet urgent: arrest the accused and ensure justice is served.
As they wait for action, residents are growing increasingly vocal about the need for an impartial inquiry, free from political pressure.
For now, Anjuna stands united, refusing to be silenced as it fights for accountability and a fair resolution to the ordeal.
Meanwhile, Chicalim Parish Priest Fr Bolmax Pereira has also denounced the assault on Dr Inacio Fernandes.
“It's such a shame that these political goons have started assaulting a peaceful young doctor for standing up against the mega disturbances in his village. Is this what our youth deserve for studying to serve people? I appeal to authorities to take strict action against the culprits and assure safety to our young Goans in their own land,” said Fr Pereira.
