PANAJI: Aldona MLA Adv. Carlos Alvares Ferreira has demanded the immediate arrest of suspended Police Inspector Vikas Deykar and Ranjini Palyekar, who have been booked in connection with an alleged sexual assault case involving a minor girl.
Questioning the state government's response, Ferreira asked why Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who also holds the Home portfolio, had not ordered their arrest.
Ferreira alleged that the incident took place inside a police station and raised serious concerns over reports that CCTV cameras had been blocked. He questioned whether the suspension of the police inspector was sufficient action in such a sensitive case.
He also questioned whether the accused were receiving protection because of their alleged connections within the police department or political circles.
Drawing a comparison with the Tarun Tejpal case, Ferreira pointed out that the government had taken swift action, including registering an FIR and making an arrest. He demanded similar accountability in the present case.
The Aldona MLA further warned that the inspector's position in the police force could potentially influence the investigation, including witnesses and subordinate police personnel.
Ferreira also criticised the BJP government over women's safety, questioning whether campaigns such as Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao had delivered results on the ground.
He urged the Chief Minister and DGP Alok Kumar to ensure strict action and questioned what concrete steps had been taken to make public spaces, markets, beaches, parks and tourist spots safer for women.
