Unfortunately, the image of the men-in-uniform in Goa is tarnished due to the unlawful acts of their comrades.
The case of rogue constable Vikas Kaushik lays bare the dark secrets of Goa Police and the corrupt practices that have for long remained under the carpet. It has come to light that he has been deeply involved in protecting illegal online casinos and gambling dens, and was also involved in collecting protection money from illegal businesses for his political godfathers from South Goa. While it is noteworthy that the inquiry that led to his dismissal from service has revealed that two IPS officers are also involved in operating the ‘racket’.
A couple of months ago, another scam of the Goa Police was exposed. The police personnel on traffic duty were directing the challan money to their personal coffers by instructing the violator to scan the UPI QR code and transfer the money into that account. While in Colva the money was routed to the cops through a wine store, in Agasaim it was usurped through a mechanic and many other mechanisms are unknown, wherein the violators paid the fine but were not handed out a challan.
While the State is combating the after effects of drinking, the case of DIG rank IPS officer A Koan highlights the abuse of power within the top brass who are expected to be ideals to the subordinates. The officer in inebriated condition misbehaved with a woman at a night club in Baga beach and was subsequently placed under suspension after a preliminary enquiry. The nexus between the police and the drug peddlers is perhaps the biggest open secret and one that has continued to flourish despite a House (Goa Legislative Assembly) report putting the facts in the open.
By not being present in the anticipatory bail application of Meghana Sawardekar in the ‘killer Merc case’ of Banastarim, Goa Police has added yet another feat to the crumble. Even after seeking time on August 16, to file its say, the Goa Police did not bother to remain present for the hearing on August 25, in spite of doubts being raised on the integrity of investigation, and the case being handed over to the Crime Branch.
Earlier this month, the IGP had to issue a warning order to transferred cops to immediately go their new postings, a clear indication that even official transfer orders are not adhered to with the blessing of seniors or political godfathers. In one such case, it has been informed that a constable in Ponda taluka has not been transferred for more than 12 years.
The falling standard of the police force has led to a collapse of faith and trust in the system. The Goa Police does not command respect or fear anymore and the sheer exasperation is the last straw of obedience that is witnessed amongst the citizens. Thus it is vital for the government and the Goa Police to reflect upon the future of law enforcement, and the law and order situation to be anticipated if the current trend of lawlessness continues within the system.
The government is about to recruit 60 officers at the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP), some through direct recruitment and others through promotion. It is a known truth that recruitments and promotions are backed by political clout, however, given the degradation it is expected that the recruitment of DySP rank officers as well as other personnel in the future will be based on merit and clean slate. The antecedents of the applicants have to be thoroughly checked and only those with absolutely no criminal or other blot on their personality should be chosen. The police force cannot be a club of goons-in-uniform, who are recruited on the basis of political favouritism only to serve themselves and their masters. Men-in-uniform are expected to uphold high standards of moral compass, who are able to be influencers of good citizenry and lead by example.
