Team Herald
MARGAO: A decision by the police to summon protesters during the festive season in connection with their agitation demanding the arrest of Subhash Velingkar has drawn sharp condemnation from those involved in the protest.
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Savio, a key figure in the protest, slammed the police for their actions and questioned why BJP leaders, including Margao Municipal
Councillor, were not being investigated.
“The people of Goa took to the streets after their sentiments were hurt by Velingkar’s tirade against St Francis Xavier. Similarly, BJP leader Manohar Ajgaonkar, along with Margao Municipal Councillors Camilo Baretto and others, also protested because their sentiments were hurt. Yet, the government and the police have conveniently not booked any of the BJP leaders,” Savio stated, expressing his frustration after presenting himself before the Fatorda police.
Savio also expressed surprise at the decision to charge citizens with rioting, pointing out the disparity in treatment.
“While the police were quick to charge citizens with rioting, those responsible for provoking the people to take to the streets have faced no consequences,” he added.
Pratima, another protester, questioned the timing of the police notices.
“Why couldn’t the police have waited for the Christmas festive season to end before issuing these notices? As law-abiding citizens, we have responded to the notice, but it’s evident that the government is acting in a dictatorial manner,” she said.
As Pratima was called to the police station, other activists, including Anthony D’Silva, expressed their solidarity. D’Silva condemned the government’s actions, saying, “This is the first time we are witnessing a government worse than the
Salazar regime.”
