PANAJI: A video that went viral on social media on Wednesday, purportedly showing a police personnel allegedly misbehaving with staff at a Porvorim restaurant, has prompted police action, with Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao raising the issue in the Goa Assembly.
The police personnel has been identified as PSI Viraj Sawant, posted at Porvorim Police Station, while the second man seen in the footage was his friend.
The video purportedly shows the two men arguing with restaurant staff over the price of cheese garlic naan. PSI Sawant is also allegedly seen warning the restaurant owner of possible police action if the establishment remained open beyond 11 pm.
In a second set of footage, the two men are allegedly seen re-entering the restaurant at another time, with PSI Sawant purportedly hurling abuses and issuing threats to the owner. He is also allegedly heard using foul language while addressing children who were present at the restaurant.
The incident prompted Alemao to question the conduct of the alleged police personnel and seek details of the action being taken. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said action had already been taken and assured the Assembly that the PSI would be suspended if found guilty following an inquiry.
PSI Sawant has reportedly been attached to the GRP at Altinho, with further departmental action initiated against him. The restaurant owner has also submitted a written complaint, and the PSI's friend has also been questioned. The inquiry report is currently being prepared.
When asked whether an FIR had been registered, the police representative said, "Nothing has been registered yet. The inquiry is still ongoing." The representative also denied allegations of political pressure preventing the registration of an FIR or other action. "There is no pressure at all. We are conducting the inquiry and will take action," the representative said.
Police said further departmental action would be based on the findings of the inquiry.
