PANAJI: Social activists, political parties, the UTAA and local residents gathered at Azad Maidan in Panaji today to demand swift and thorough action after activist Rama Kankonkar was brutally assaulted by a group of men in Caranzalem yesterday, leaving him with multiple injuries.
Hundreds marched from Azad Maidan to the Police Headquarters, blocking roads near the Old Secretariat and forcing traffic diversions as protesters sought a meeting with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and DGP Alok Kumar. Organisers and opposition leaders said the attack was aimed at silencing a prominent voice and called it a direct threat to Goa’s democracy.
“One of our brothers who fights for us, a well-known face across all social media, Rama Kankonkar, was hurt and attacked yesterday,” said South Goa MP Viriato Fernandes. “The manner in which five people arrested him shows what we always say, that law and order is collapsing. We hold the government responsible because activists and innocent citizens are repeatedly being attacked… We demand strict action.”
UTAA President Prakash Velip, addressing the crowd from Azad Maidan, which he described as “the centre of freedom fighters,” said the attack was a “burning example” of the threats facing those who raise their voice. “His eyes were swollen, blood was coming from his eyes, and his back was broken,” Velip said after visiting Kankonkar at GMC late on the night of the attack. “We demand a complete and thorough investigation and immediate justice for our people.”
Opposition leaders pressed for stronger measures. GFP chief Vijay Sardesai called for police protection for Kankonkar and suggested the use of the National Security Act against those involved, describing the incident as “politically backed goondaism.” Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao accused the state government of “dictatorship and hooliganism” and demanded the probe identify any masterminds or political patrons behind the assault.
Several speakers at the protest pointed to an alleged pattern of intimidation. Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas referenced a previous attack on Kankonkar and urged authorities to link the cases and bring all perpetrators to justice. Protesters closed some offices and halted a number of services as a show of solidarity.
Police say the investigation has already produced results. “We are conducting an intensive search for the remaining accused and will arrest him immediately. The quick probe has already led to the arrest of five, and the motive is under investigation. We will take the case to its logical conclusion,” DGP Alok Kumar told reporters.
Protesters continued to demand that the government identify any political protectors and the alleged “mastermind” behind the attack. They warned of further agitation, including taluka-level mobilisation, and threatened a statewide Goa bandh on Monday if their demands are not met.
