TEAM HERALD
PANJIM: In the aftermath of a spontaneous public protest, Goa Police have assured that an ‘impartial investigation’ would be conducted into a Facebook comment by marine engineer Devu Chodankar wherein he had expressed apprehensions about Narendra Modi becoming Prime Minister.
Director General of Police T N Mohan assured a 10-member delegation, including independent legislator Vijay Sardessai, NCP President Nilkant Halarnkar, AAP leaders Valmiki Naik and Swati Kerkar which met him on Monday morning, that a fair probe would be conducted to allay their fears.
“I have assured the delegation that we are conducting a fair, factual and impartial investigation. I have cleared their doubts…we will conduct the probe as per law,” Mohan told Herald after the meeting.
During the 30-minute meeting in DGP’s chamber at Police Headquarters, away from media glare, the delegation was also told that Chodankar could face legal action if he further delays appearing before the investigating team. The delegation agreed and assured to produce him as soon as he returns Goa.
Chodankar, who is presently out of Goa, faced a setback when District and Sessions Court rejected his anticipatory bail plea last week. His fresh plea before the Bombay High Court at Goa will be heard on Tuesday.
Chodankar was issued summons twice, which went unanswered. Samir Kelekar, also part of the delegation, said Chodankar’s father had written to the police that he would require 15 days to appear as he was out of station on official trip. “DGP was very sympathetic towards our views. He has assured us of a fair trial,” he informed.
It is learnt the delegation conceded that the post
was not in good taste but urged the department to
be lenient, he being a
‘young man.’
