PANAJI
Amid growing criticism over a series of cases involving police personnel allegedly overstepping legal and professional limits, Director General of Police (DGP) Alok Kumar on Thursday said the Goa Police follows a zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct and indiscipline within the force. Senior officers have also been directed to crack down on indiscipline among personnel.
The statement comes at a time when the department is facing allegations of custodial assault, misconduct and a lack of accountability in several high-profile cases.
“We have taken strict action and will not spare any wrongdoing. Every instance of misconduct has been dealt with firmly, and no indiscipline or inappropriate behaviour – whether within the department, in dealings with citizens or elsewhere – will be tolerated,” Kumar told reporters.
The DGP said strict disciplinary action had been taken in the past and would continue whenever necessary.
“Senior officers have been directed to closely monitor the conduct of their personnel. Any sign of indiscipline must be identified and addressed at the earliest stage to ensure the highest standards of professionalism and accountability are maintained,” he added.
Kumar, however, declined to comment on specific cases, saying only that inquiries were underway.
Recent cases under scrutiny
His remarks come against the backdrop of the alleged custodial assault case at the Maina-Curtorim police station, which sparked outrage across Goa. The department later suspended two police sub-inspectors and three constables.
The department also faced embarrassment after Head Constable Samir Fadte was suspended for allegedly driving an SUV dangerously close to the Chief Minister’s convoy at Amona last week. Police said he was also allegedly under the influence of alcohol.
Death of youth raises questions
Another case that drew public attention was the death of 22-year-old Samuel De Braganca, who was found dead shortly after being questioned by Mapusa police over a viral video that allegedly showed him
dumping garbage.
His family accused the police of unlawfully detaining and harassing him for nearly seven hours at the police station. They have also pointed to injuries allegedly noted in the post-mortem report.
