PANJIM: The attack on activist Munnalal Halwai,whose face was blackened by a goon with paint at Azad Maidan, Panjim, has sparked public outrage across Goa.
Several questions have been raised over the absence of police and the safety of people fighting the issues concerning Goa. People have termed the incident,which took place just opposite the police headquarters, an attack on the freedom of expression.
An activist, Mahesh Damodar Nayak, said, “This attack is the murder of democracy as it happened in the sacred place of Goa’s revolution. NGOs and likeminded people and activists will not take this lying down.”
Halwai was sprayed with black spray paint on his face. He may turn blind as the paint entered his eyes. Surprisingly, this shocking incident took place under the complete watch of the Press and media who turned mute spectators.
Halwai is a complainant in a matter where temple land has been encroached and a large two-storey structure has been built by a Bandora resident. The land encroached belongs to Ramnathi Temple in Bandora.
The Ponda Police arrested the person who Munnalal accused of attacking him on Friday with an iron rod, damaging his car and trying to kill him.
Khandepar resident 35-year-old Bhumi Varak was arrested but was later released on bail.
Panjim Police too have registered an offence but are yet to initiate action. However, the mastermind behind both the incidents is still at large.
“The goon who sprayed black paint on my face was sent by one Saurabh Lotlikar who is a ruling party karyakarta. He has already attacked me and abused me during the inspection of the illegal bungalow under the watchful eyes of the Ponda Police,”Halwai charged.
“This goondagiri happens in broad daylight dead opposite the police headquarters. During the inspection Lotlikar had the audacity to tear the book which is a government record that was being used by the Block Development Officer who came for inspection and no action has been taken,” he claimed.
