Team Goemkarponn
CURCHOREM: A sex scandal that rocked Curchorem triggered massive public outrage, forcing police to arrest a 20-year-old youth late Sunday evening after residents issued a 24-hour ultimatum demanding immediate action.
The accused, Soham Naik of Madhegal-Curchorem, was taken into custody by Curchorem police under Section 294 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 67A of the Information Technology Act, relating to publishing or transmitting sexually explicit material online. Police said further investigations are in progress.
Tension had escalated earlier in the day when a large number of residents gathered outside the Curchorem police station, alleging delay in action and demanding the immediate arrest of those involved. Protesters warned that roads in Curchorem would be blocked if police failed to act within 24 hours.
Former councillor Anand Prabhudessai, who led the protest, demanded clarity on the investigation and urged authorities to act swiftly. Protesters also appealed to MLA Nilesh Cabral to intervene, referring to his role in handling a similar controversy in the past.
Locals expressed concern that delays could allow the accused to flee the state or country and alleged possible political pressure affecting the probe. Residents also said expecting victims to come forward in such sensitive cases was unrealistic and urged police to act based on available inputs.
The agitation gained momentum after a report in a vernacular daily, which locals claimed provided enough leads to identify those responsible. Concerns further deepened amid rumours of possible minor involvement, triggering anxiety among parents and residents.
Under mounting public pressure, police arrested the accused late Sunday evening. Authorities did not disclose further details but assured that proper procedures were being followed.
Meanwhile, GPCC president Amit Patkar and social worker Rohan Gauns Dessai appealed to authorities to verify the report, take strict action against those guilty, and ensure protection for victims and their families.
