In 2012 the BJP rode to power promising good governance and zero tolerance to corruption. But governance has dipped to the pits, with Goa today embroiled in rampant corruption and nepotism. The malaise of corruption has now reached the door steps of the Goa Police who otherwise have to enforce the law. The police must themselves first adhere to the rule of law while enforcing it. When you have a police officer engaging in alleged gross malpractices and acts of corruption, the public confidence in the law enforcement is clearly eroded.
Superintendent of Police and Principal of Police Training School Atmaram Deshpande finds himself entangled in a string of very serious allegations. Ironically those charges are being probed by his batch mate the SP of Anti – Corruption Branch, Bosco George, who as expected is going all out to shield and cover up the alleged gross irregularities and malpractices by his brother officer.
We cannot remain mere spectators to this brazen breach of law by Deshpande. He has to account for all his unholy acts as tax payer’s money has been recklessly drained. There needs to be a meticulous probe into all the charges against him. His misdeeds being serious and blatant cannot be condoned. If this is the sordid conduct of an officer of the rank of SP, nothing better can be expected from the lower constabulary. For the probe against Deshpande to be free, fair and above board, he needs to be placed under suspension or at least divested of powers which allow him to influence and scuttle the investigation.
Deshpande, who in the past has been the public relations officer for the Goa Police, undoubtedly is at his best in PR skills. He could sweet talk you up the hill without you realizing when he has dropped you down the cliff.
Deshpande, has been remarkably able to maneuver around politicians of all shades. Despite having been elevated to the Indian Police service in Nov 2011, he was able to manipulate and stay back in Goa while aborting his transfer to the North East. One cannot opt for the IPS and also remain glued to the Goa Police Service in the land of fish, feni and frolic. But that says it all about Deshpande. A couple of more Atmarams and it will be rest in peace for Goa Police.
