I write to express my deep disappointment at the actions of law enforcement in Salcete, where buses arranged by local activists and politicians to transport people to Panaji were stopped and blocked. The protesters were ordinary citizens of Goa and sought to exercise their democratic right to voice concerns on issues affecting our state. Instead of facilitating this constitutional right the police chose to obstruct the buses citing flimsy excuses. This heavy handed approach reveals a disturbing trend that the law enforcement is acting not as an independent body but as tools for political intimidation. By stopping these buses they enabled potential traffic chaos, had people resorted to private vehicles, and sent a clear message that dissent is unwelcome. Democracy dies when politicians bully voters and law enforcement sides with oppression. The right to protest is fundamental. I urge accountability and restraint from authorities. Politicians must respect citizens’ voices, not crush them.
