A GPMC delegation marched to the GSCW office in Panaji and submitted a memorandum seeking immediate intervention, particularly in view of concerns surrounding the safety and protection of minor girls.
Speaking to the media, GPMC president Patiksha Khalap described the case as “shocking”, alleging that between 20 and 50 girls may have been exploited by the 20-year-old accused over a period of nearly three years. She claimed that despite the gravity of the allegations, adequate action had not been taken.
Khalap called for a dedicated committee under the GSCW to handle such sensitive cases and ensure close coordination with the police for a comprehensive investigation. She also flagged the absence of a Child Welfare Police Officer under the Juvenile Justice system, alleging government inaction on the issue.
Raising concerns over the scale of the alleged exploitation, Khalap said the possibility of involvement of multiple individuals cannot be ruled out. She further alleged that there were suspicions of victims being sedated with drugs.
She pointed out that the accused was reportedly a minor when the alleged offences began and suggested that some victims could be school-going girls known to him. Khalap criticised both the GSCW and the Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (GSCPCR) for not taking suo motu cognisance so far.
Expressing concern that the accused could secure bail in the absence of victim testimony, Khalap said social stigma and psychological trauma may deter victims from coming forward. “In such cases, statutory bodies must act proactively, which has not happened,” she said.
Among its demands, the GPMC has called for a dedicated helpline for victims and mandatory awareness programmes in schools, colleges, and for parents to address such issues.
