The Goa Pradesh Mahila Congress on Saturday held a protest march to Azad Maidan in Panaji, highlighting concerns over rising crimes against women and children in the state.
Led by its president Dr Pratiksha Khalap, the march saw participation from party workers and leaders, including Goa Pradesh Congress Committee president Amit Patkar. Protesters carried placards and raised slogans as they moved through the city, pointing to what they described as a worsening law-and-order situation.
Addressing the media near Azad Maidan, Khalap said Goa was witnessing an increase in crime cases affecting its image. She criticised the state leadership over its handling of recent incidents, including the case reported in Curchorem.
Protesters also raised slogans against the ruling government, alleging inadequate measures to ensure women’s safety. They questioned the response of women representatives within the ruling party.
Amit Patkar termed the situation “grave,” stating that multiple cases of sexual assault were being recorded each month. He also raised concerns about the handling of the Curchorem case and called for a broader investigation, claiming that several victims could be linked to the incident.
He further alleged administrative lapses and called for institutional measures, including counselling support for school students, particularly in areas where minors were reported to have been affected.
Among the key demands raised were the resignation of individuals linked to the accused in the Curchorem case, appointment of a chairperson for the Goa State Commission for Women, and deployment of trained counsellors in schools in line with the National Education Policy.
Data shared during the protest indicated a rise in crimes against women and minors. According to the figures presented, Goa recorded 106 rape cases in 2024. Crimes against minors stood at 269 between January and September 2025. Cases involving women have also increased over the years, with over 365 reported in 2024.
The protest concluded with calls for immediate intervention and systemic reforms, with organisers stating that the issue required sustained attention and coordinated action.
Leave a Reply