Delegation highlights violent crimes from Vasco to Saligao
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Thursday mounted a sharp attack on the BJP-led State government, alleging a collapse of the law-and-order machinery and demanding the resignation of Chief Minister and Home Minister Pramod Sawant.
A delegation of party leaders met Governor Ashok Gajapathi Raju to press their case, citing a spate of violent crimes across the State.
The delegation comprised AAP's Benaulim MLA, Venzy Viegas, Working Presidents Valmiki Naik and Gerson Gomes, and Women’s Wing Vice President Suvarna Harmalkar.
In a memorandum submitted to the Governor, the party claimed that Goa, once known for its peaceful environment, has witnessed a surge in brutal crimes ranging from robberies and shootings to murders.
Speaking after the meeting, Viegas said criminals in Goa “have no fear of the police” and accused the government of failing to strengthen investigative systems.
“The Chief Minister’s photos with police officials in so-called review meetings are nothing but a show,” he remarked, adding that he has urged the Governor to summon Sawant for a face-to-face meeting and direct him to restore public confidence in policing.
The AAP leaders also presented the Governor with details of recent high-profile crimes, including the Baina robbery in Vasco, the double murder in Saligao, the gang war in Mungul, and the killing of farmer Umakant Khot in Morjim.
They also highlighted the assault on activist Rama Kankonkar and alleged police misconduct in Navelim, where a young man was reportedly beaten while in custody.
National spokesperson Valmiki Naik accused the government of offering only “lip service” in response to rising crime.
“Whenever a crime occurs, the Chief Minister simply says he has instructed the police to take strict action. Beyond this, nothing concrete happens,” Naik said, adding that ordinary Goans were now feeling unsafe even in their own homes.
Working President Gerson Gomes warned that Goa’s reputation as a safe tourist destination was at risk.
“Criminals are acting fearlessly, damaging Goa’s image. The current government has turned the State into a safe haven for criminals,” he said.
Women’s Wing Vice President Suvarna Harmalkar added that the delegation had urged the Governor to take immediate steps to secure Sawant’s resignation as Home Minister.
AAP’s memorandum outlined three key demands: freeing the police from political interference, strengthening investigative systems to ensure faster arrests and visible convictions, and launching statewide public safety campaigns including night surveillance and community policing.
The Governor is yet to respond publicly to the delegation’s demands. However, AAP leaders said they would continue to highlight Goa’s “grim reality” until decisive action is taken.
