MAPUSA
In a significant shake-up within the local police force, Calangute Police Inspector (PI) Paresh Naik and Police Sub-Inspector (PSI) Kiran Naik were transferred to the Goa Reserve Police following a surge in criminal activities along the Calangute coastline.
The sudden transfer of the two cops has sparked controversy in the wake of the sealing of a popular Baga club, whose bouncers were involved in the violent attack on two local youth.
The transfer orders were issued late Monday night, shortly after the club was sealed by the Calangute Police.
The transfers come in the wake of several alarming incidents in the area, including an attack on two local youth by bouncers from a popular club in Baga, as well as two other cases involving the alleged molestation of three young girls by tourists and the assault of veterinary doctors.
These back-to-back events raised concerns about law and order in the region, prompting swift action from higher authorities. Porvorim PI Rahul Parab has been assigned additional charge of the Calangute Police Station.
According to sources, the bouncer-related attack in Baga is believed to have directly influenced the decision to transfer the officers. The incident, along with other recent crimes, heightened public scrutiny and pushed for a restructuring of the local police leadership. However, the transfer of PI Paresh Naik has not been well received by many in the community.
Local villagers expressed disappointment, describing the officer as responsive and effective in his duties. “PI Naik has been very helpful and cooperative. He always took immediate action when it mattered,” said a local panchayat member, speaking on condition of anonymity.
“It seems like his transfer is linked to his swift response to the attack involving the club’s bouncers, which has raised questions among the locals.”
PI made scapegoat: Local MLA
MAPUSA: Calangute MLA Michael Lobo has come out in defence of PI Paresh Naik, stating that the officer was unfairly made a scapegoat following a series of criminal incidents in the area, which led to his sudden transfer. Lobo acknowledged that multiple incidents occurred in quick succession, prompting the transfer, but argued that Naik should not bear the sole blame.
Lobo highlighted the challenges faced by local law enforcement, particularly in dealing with unruly tourists. “Sometimes tourists get so intoxicated that they think they own the club, restaurant, or even all of Goa,” Lobo said, explaining that the police alone cannot be held accountable for such behaviour.
The Calangute MLA stressed that Naik had been performing his duties well and that his commendable work was being overlooked in the wake of recent events.
“Calangute PI Paresh Naik is being made a scapegoat. The three incidents that took place one after the other resulted in the officers’ transfer, but his efforts have gone unrecognised,” Lobo said.
