Panjim’s most prominent residents, say enough, to fight for justice for sword attack victims on the streets
Demand quick and fair action against accused sword attacker Zaine Almeida
Candle-lit meeting, march, memorandum to CM on Saturday
TEAM HERALD
teamherald@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: There’s a storm brewing in the genteel tree lined precincts of Campal. As one of their sons lies battered, with a lost eye and internal injuries, the buzz in the boulevards is getting louder in support of Rafael Peregrinho da Costa and his close friend Raju Sarin whose throat was slit by Zaine Almeida on the morning of April 21.
Campal, one of Panjim’s oldest, well preserved heritage localities, is home to some of Panjim’s best known public spirited citizens-doctors, teachers, politicians, freedom fighters and musicians.
On Thursday night, many of them, and other well-wishers and simply those who care for Panjim met at very short notice. Almost by reflex, they congregated on the road in front of the da Costa home, a quaint yellow cottage from where the melodious notes from the piano and the guitar always flowed. Music has been replaced by eerie silence as Rafael’s father is still coming to terms with what suddenly happened to his boy.
Honestly, these folks aren’t quite used to taking to the streets and the government. Music may be the perfect foil to muscle but in the real world of wayward boys with powerful parentage who carry swords in their cars, it’s a tough task. But right here and now, there is a growing feeling that if they don’t stand up for Rafael and Raju now, the threat to the civility of Panjim will only grow. “The attack indicates that Panjim is not a safe place anymore especially when such attackers are on the prowl,” Ezilda D’Souza, a local said. The aggrieved citizens are committed that they will ensure victims get justice, “as anybody else can be a victim tomorrow.” “Strong action has to be taken against the culprit and the government and judiciary should take proper steps so that he is brought to book,” said Dr Lily Sequeira, one of Goa’s most respected senior doctors.
On Thursday night, some key decisions were taken. There will be a candle-lit meeting at the Campal ground and a small procession. Besides the candlelight procession, the residents backed by Deputy Corporation of City of Panjim Mayor Kabir Makhija Pinto have decided to submit a memorandum to Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar demanding a fair probe. The safety of locals living in the city as well as visitors will also be asked for, at the backdrop of the incident.
“This is a very serious issue. I hope the law-enforcing authorities bring the culprit to book and may justice prevail. I appeal to all concerned to join in the candle light procession for the cause”, said former councilor and a prominent social activist, Patricia Pinto.
