During recent years, cases of anti-social elements snatching gold ornaments and mangalsutra of women have increased tremendously. It is a general practice for robbers to proceed on a two-wheeler and the person sitting at the back snatches the ornaments or mangalsutra. The rider soon over-speeds and flees from the spot in no time. In most such cases, the robbers remain untraceable and the women lose their valuables. Recently two such cases were reported. At Khorlim in Mapusa, a lady was asked for some address during her walk. Subsequently a gold chain was snatched from her neck. In another incident in Assagao, the mangalsutra was snatched from a woman’s neck while she was walking by the roadside. It is rather unfortunate that such cases occur during broad daylight. Such a tendency amply depicts that law and order situation in the state has been declining. Under such circumstances, it is the need of the hour for women to remain alert while walking along the road at any instance. If possible, they should note down the registration number of the concerned vehicle so that it becomes easier for the police to expedite the investigation in nabbing the culprits. It is a common practice with girls and women to hold their cellphone in their hand while walking along the road. This too can be snatched by the thief. I hope women take a note of above facts and pledge to remain alert so as to protect their valuables.
Pravin U Sardessai, Adpai
