The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has strongly criticized the BJP-led State government in Goa, accusing it of serious law-and-order failure and demanding the resignation of Chief Minister and Home Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant. AAP leaders alleged that the recent surge in violent criminal activities has shaken Goa’s long-standing reputation as a peaceful and safe state.
Delegation Meets Governor Over Public Safety Crisis
The delegation included Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas, Working Presidents Valmiki Naik and Gerson Gomes, and Women’s Wing Vice President Suvarna Harmalkar. The leaders stated that Goa, once considered one of the safest and most peaceful places in India, is now witnessing a disturbing surge in robberies, murders, shootings, gang fights, and custodial violence.
After the meeting, MLA Venzy Viegas said the government’s policing system has become weak and ineffective, claiming that “criminals in Goa have no fear of the police.” He accused the Chief Minister of treating crime review meetings as “photo-op shows” without taking real action to improve law and order.
Major Crime Incidents Highlighted in Memorandum
AAP listed several recent crime cases that, according to them, demonstrate severe governance failure:
- Baina robbery in Vasco
- Double murder in Saligao
- Mungul gang war
- Killing of farmer Umakant Khot in Morjim
- Assault on activist Rama Kankonkar
- Alleged custodial violence in Navelim
According to AAP, these incidents reflect the rising threat to citizens who are now afraid even within their own homes.
Goa’s Tourism Reputation at Risk
During the meeting, AAP leaders raised serious concerns about the impact of rising crime on Goa’s tourism-driven economy.
Working President Gerson Gomes stated that Goa’s image as a safe and friendly tourist destination is now under serious threat, adding:
“Criminals are acting with impunity, and the State has become a safe haven for wrongdoers under this government.”
AAP warned that continued negligence could damage both public trust and tourism revenue.
Demand for CM’s Resignation and Police Reforms
Women’s Wing Vice President Suvarna Harmalkar demanded immediate resignation of Dr. Pramod Sawant as Home Minister, accusing him of failing to protect public safety and control rising crime.
AAP’s Three Key Demands
- End political interference in policing.
- Strengthen investigative systems to ensure fast arrests and convictions.
- Launch statewide safety drives including night patrolling and community policing initiatives.
So far, the Governor has not issued an official response. However, AAP has declared that it will continue raising awareness about what it calls Goa’s “grim reality” until concrete steps are taken.
AAP Vows Continued Protest
AAP leaders said that ongoing silence from the government is unacceptable given the level of public fear. The party announced that it will intensify its campaigns, involve communities, and highlight every crime incident until proper law and order measures are restored.
They stated that Goa deserves strong governance, transparency, and a secure environment — not political excuses.
