The recent recovery of the body of a 19-year-old girl on the Calangute beach in a semi-naked state has put into focus the safety of women in Goa. No doubt, the police have to conduct a water-tight probe, but at the same time heighten vigilance on beaches and other areas, especially in the evening hours to ensure women are safe. The government cannot absolve itself of its duty to keep the state safe. It has to come out with a radical approach to public safety. The administration will have to deploy more manpower and make use of technology to ensure criminals are convicted and given exemplary punishment. Moreover, people circulating videos of the victim is an offence. It is high time the government and police shoulder some responsibility. The constitution of India imposes responsibility on the state to ensure the safety of women and children.
