Goa Police on Sunday dismissed activist Rama Kankonkar’s claim that he suspected Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte of involvement in the attack on him, noting that he had not named any politician in his first statement.
Kankonkar was assaulted by a group of men near Panaji on September 18. Superintendent of Police (North) Rahul Gupta said at a press conference that Kankonkar did not mention any political leader when his statement was recorded on October 2 in the presence of his wife and lawyer.
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Deputy Superintendent of Police Sudesh Naik, who is investigating the case, called the activist’s latest statement an “improvisation.” Senior officials, including Director General of Police Alok Kumar, were also present at the press briefing.
After being discharged from hospital on Saturday, Kankonkar had alleged suspicion towards CM Sawant and Khaunte. The Chief Minister immediately denied the allegation, stating that the activist was attempting to sensationalise and politicise the matter.
SP Rahul Gupta emphasised that the investigation was swift and thorough. Five suspects were arrested on the day of the incident with the help of CCTV footage, while two others were held the following day. He added that Kankonkar had previously spoken out against one of the accused, Zenito Cardoso, in social media videos, suggesting a possible motive.
Despite being cleared by doctors at Goa Medical College and Hospital to give a statement earlier, Kankonkar avoided doing so until October 2. The police have invoked sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to organised crime and destruction of evidence, along with provisions under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, against the accused.
“All the accused are in judicial custody. Kankonkar has been provided police security. We are committed to ensuring justice and his safety,” the SP added.
