PANAJI
The High Court of Bombay at Goa has dismissed a petition filed by former probationary police constable Vishal Madgaonkar, challenging his dismissal from service by the Goa Police.
Madgaonkar, who was serving as a wireless messenger, was terminated on November 12, 2024, after a Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) convicted him for creating a public nuisance under the influence of alcohol. Prior to his dismissal, he was issued a show-cause notice on October 17 and given a month to respond.
Challenging his termination, Madgaonkar moved the High Court, making the State government, the Director General of Police, and the Superintendent of Police (Headquarters) respondents in the case.
The former cop’s troubles deepened when a Vasco-based woman lodged a complaint with the Director General of Police, accusing him of defrauding her of Rs 4 lakh. She alleged that in April 2022, Madgaonkar promised to secure her a job as an Assistant Manager (Finance) at Goa Shipyard Ltd -- a position that never materialized. Despite requests, he allegedly failed to return the money and instead intimidated her.
During an internal inquiry, the police department found that Madgaonkar had a prior conviction for causing a public nuisance while intoxicated. He had allegedly concealed the order during his recruitment into the force.
With the High Court dismissing his plea, Madgaonkar’s dismissal from service stands upheld.
