PANAJI
Several retired senior police officers have voiced concern over a "worrying decline" in Goa’s policing standards, as the State has recently been a victim of a rise in thefts, robberies, and burglaries.
Alleging political interference and fading discipline within the force, the former officers have, however, sought accountability, visible presence on the ground, and upgrading policing infrastructure to thwart attempts to commit crimes.
Former IPS officer Bosco George observed that Goa is facing one of its most challenging phases in law enforcement.
“Crime has indeed increased, including gang activity,” he said, stressing that sensitive investigations must be shielded from political or public interference. “Premature disclosure harms operations. Transfers and postings are often influenced by politicians, undermining the system,” he added, recalling that earlier, strong leadership had ensured impartial policing.
While stating the force remains a disciplined, hierarchy-based organisation, he insisted that its operational success depends on clear directives from both police and political leadership.
“Modern policing demands technology, but we cannot ignore fundamentals like police presence. A visible police presence instils public confidence. What we need is technology, proper chowkis, fixed posts, regular monitoring, and strict enforcement without interference,” he said, calling for chowkis in key areas such as Miramar, Dona Paula and Anjuna.
'Dedication is missing on the ground'
Another retired superintendent of police, Bossuet Silva, echoed similar concerns but drew attention to the changing work culture within the force.
“Today’s officers are smart but there is no dedication. Earlier, we saw passion and commitment. Now, they (largely lower hierarchy) finish their duty and leave their place of work... You don’t find anyone at the police station.”
He said that while technology has advanced, the sense of personal accountability has diminished, as he recalled that in the 1990s and up to 2010, there was less technology but more dedication.
“The so-called Local Intelligence Bureau has grown older. Many have lost their drive and younger staff lack that zeal,” he said, adding that the ease of movement through improved road and rail connectivity has made getaways for accused easier, increasing such crimes.
'System needs leadership, not just structure'
Another former SP, Mahesh Gaonkar, expressed deep concern about the spate of undetected robberies and crimes in the State. He slammed the current setup within the force, which has unfortunately not worked to the advantage of Goa’s law and order in recent years.
“I feel there is a necessity for proper accountability. We cannot afford to become complacent or overlook the fundamentals of policing. Goa Police, in my view, has a sufficient number of able and competent officers across all ranks who can handle these challenges effectively. What they truly need is motivation, strong leadership, and timely coordination and support,” he said.
Gaonkar added that to tackle certain ethnic or community-related crimes, the force must return to the basics with regular patrolling, neighbourhood watch, and beat policing. “All this definitely should be reinforced with modern technology such as CCTV surveillance, mobile tracking, and electronic monitoring,” he said.
Another senior officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, recalled that during former DGP Bhim Sain Bassi’s tenure in 2009-2011, police were directed to register all FIRs of thefts and burglaries irrespective of the value of stolen property.
“This helped establish a chain of accused and with one arrest, multiple thefts would be solved,” the source said, lamenting that the same “zeal” is missing now.
