Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte has raised questions over activist Rama Kankonkar’s change in statement regarding his assault, particularly the timing and possible political motives behind implicating senior leaders. Khaunte pointed out that Rama had not mentioned either himself or Chief Minister Pramod Sawant in his initial statement recorded by police in the presence of his wife and lawyer. Only after being discharged from the hospital did Rama allege suspicion towards the Chief Minister and the Tourism Minister, citing political reasons for the attack.
Khaunte asked why Rama did not make such claims earlier, especially when Chief Minister Sawant had visited him after the assault. Police reports and news sources indicate that Kankonkar’s first statement did not name any politicians, with authorities describing the latest statement as an “improvisation.” The police have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and suspects have been apprehended based on CCTV footage and available evidence.
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Chief Minister Sawant dismissed Rama’s renewed allegations as an attempt to sensationalize and politicize the matter, while opposition leaders have demanded independent or judicial oversight of the investigation in light of the activist’s latest claims.
Rama Kankonkar clarified that he had no personal enmity with the attackers, attributing the assault to his activism, including issues concerning the allocation of the tribal affairs portfolio. He expressed mistrust in the police and called for an investigative agency outside the Home Ministry to ensure a fair and unbiased inquiry.
