Goa: Congress leader Olencio Simoes has strongly criticised the government over what he described as the continuous deterioration of law and order in the Cortalim Constituency over the past four-and-a-half years.
Simoes alleged that illegal activities and unlawful businesses have increased across the constituency, creating serious concerns among residents regarding public safety and the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies.
“Cortalim is facing a worrying situation where people are increasingly concerned about criminal activities, violence and the growing drug menace. Every citizen has the right to live in a safe environment, but the government has failed to provide the security and confidence people expect,” Simoes said.
Referring to the reported deaths of eight students associated with BITS Pilani, Goa, Simoes questioned the government’s response to concerns surrounding drug abuse and student safety. He demanded stronger enforcement measures, transparent investigations and immediate steps to prevent young lives from being affected by substance abuse.
Simoes also raised concerns over the recent sword attack in Zuarinagar, stating that the incident should not be viewed as an isolated case. He pointed out that the area has witnessed reports of murders, violent clashes and fights in the past, raising questions about preventive policing, criminal investigations and the overall effectiveness of law enforcement.
“The people of Zuarinagar and the entire Cortalim Constituency cannot be forced to live under constant fear. Every incident of violence must be investigated thoroughly and those responsible must face legal action, irrespective of their political connections or influence,” he said.
The Congress leader also referred to reports that 10 history-sheeters have been notified by Verna Police Station and demanded a detailed investigation into possible links between organised crime, drug trafficking, illegal gambling, extortion and violent offences.
He alleged that political protection may be allowing certain criminal elements to operate freely and called for an independent probe into these allegations.
Simoes urged Goa Chief Minister and Home Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant to immediately order a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the pattern of criminal incidents in Zuarinagar and across the Cortalim Constituency.
According to him, the SIT should examine possible links between criminal networks, investigate allegations of political patronage, review previous cases of violence and identify lapses in policing and intelligence gathering.
He also demanded strict action against drug trafficking, illegal gambling, extortion and other organised criminal activities.
“People have the right to know why repeated incidents of violence continue to occur and whether the existing policing system is effectively addressing the situation. An independent SIT investigation will help establish facts, fix accountability and restore public confidence,” Simoes said.
He further urged the Home Minister to ensure that the investigation is conducted impartially without political interference and that legal action is taken against anyone found guilty based on evidence.
Olencio Simoes concluded by calling for immediate action to restore law and order, protect the youth, control the drug menace and ensure that every resident of Cortalim can live with dignity, security and peace.
