Says police actively tracking accused
MARGAO
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to arrest Gautam Khattar and bring him to Goa, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Thursday assured strict action, saying no one would be allowed to disturb Goa’s communal harmony and brotherhood.
Referring to the recent arrest of Bangladeshi dacoits involved in robberies in the State, the Chief Minister said that if Goa Police can catch criminals from Bangladesh, it will not take much time to arrest Gautam Khattar.
He appealed to the people of Goa to remain patient and trust the government, stating, “Gautam Khattar will be arrested 100 per cent by the police.”
The Chief Minister made the statement at Sonsodo during the commissioning of a gasification plant, after the issue was raised by Goa Forward chief and MLA Vijai Sardesai, who demanded that Sawant give a “birthday gift” to the people of Goa by removing Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho from the Cabinet.
“To nab accused Gautam Khattar for making derogatory statements against Goencho Saib, the police had gone to his house. He was not found, but his brother has been arrested for his alleged role in preparing the script and circulating the video. The police are taking the matter very seriously,” he said.
He added that since Khattar was not found at his residence, a lookout notice would be issued to ensure he does not leave the country.
Highlighting that the Hindu and Catholic communities have maintained harmony over the years and never allowed communal tensions in the State, the Chief Minister urged people to maintain peace, unity, and brotherhood.
Earlier, Goa Forward chief Vijai Sardesai demanded that Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho be sacked for defending the accused during the programme. “Mauvin deserves to be sacked immediately. The Chief Minister should give a birthday gift to the people of Goa by removing him from the Cabinet. He has no right to hold the position. He is even disowning his religion just to survive in politics,” Sardesai said.
Meanwhile, Benaulim fisherman Pele Fernandes urged the Chief Minister at Sonsodo to immediately arrest Gautam Khattar for his alleged derogatory remarks against St Francis Xavier. The Chief Minister assured that police teams have been formed to trace Khattar and bring him to justice.
