A Crime Branch Police Inspector was suspended on Saturday evening, more than 24 hours after an FIR was registered against him for allegedly sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl inside his cabin on two occasions. He allegedly covered the CCTV camera to prevent the incidents from being recorded. Surprisingly, the suspended officer has still not been arrested. Is he being shielded by senior police officials or influential politicians? Did the BJP government not swiftly register an FIR and arrest Tarun Tejpal in 2013, even before the victim arrived in Goa to lodge her complaint? Where are the BJP Mahila Mandals, known for organising protest rallies on selective issues to gain political mileage? Why are they silent on this serious matter? If the BJP is genuinely concerned about women's safety, it must ensure the officer's immediate arrest and termination of service rather than allow him to influence the investigation, intimidate witnesses or pressure subordinates to protect himself.
JERRY FERNANDES, Saligao
