VALPOI
The alleged custodial assault and subsequent suicide of Moin Shaikh from Sattari has sparked widespread outrage, with strong demands for the immediate suspension of the police personnel involved. Those accused include Police Sub-Inspector Prathamesh Gawas, one Assistant Sub-Inspector, and two constables.
Protests have continued for the past two days outside Valpoi Police Station. Although the government has transferred PSI Prathamesh Gawas to the reserve line, no suspension order has been issued so far. No clear action has been taken against the other personnel either.
Family members have warned that if action is not taken by Monday evening, they will begin an indefinite sit-in protest at the police station from Tuesday. With growing public support, the agitation is expected to intensify.
Meanwhile, local MLA and Health Minister Vishwajit Rane has written to the Director General of Police, calling for a fresh inquiry into the case.
According to reports, Moin Shaikh had gone to Valpoi Police Station last Sunday to file a complaint about an alleged assault by his girlfriend and her associate. However, instead of registering his complaint, PSI Gawas reportedly filed a case against him and placed him under arrest.
It is alleged that Shaikh was severely assaulted while in custody during the night. CCTV footage of the incident is said to have surfaced. Under mental distress, he later died by suicide at his home on Wednesday.
The incident has triggered anger across the Valpoi region. The CCTV footage, which reportedly shows the assault in custody, has further fuelled public outrage. Superintendent of Police Vishwesh Karpe has collected the footage and submitted it to senior officials.
Karpe visited the police station on Saturday to review the situation but faced strong protests and verbal confrontation from demonstrators.
Demand for strict action
Protesters and family members have said that a transfer is not enough. They are demanding suspension and, if required, dismissal of the officers involved. They have also called for strict action against everyone responsible to ensure justice.
They have warned that if their demands are not met by Monday night, an indefinite protest will begin from Tuesday. They have also urged Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to take the matter seriously and act without delay.
Family members and local residents have expressed deep anger over the alleged inhuman treatment of Moin Shaikh, stating that they will not stay silent. They have called for strict measures to prevent such incidents in the future and to ensure accountability within the police force.
