Team Goemkarponn
VASCO: The Vasco Block Congress on Tuesday raised concerns over the law and order situation in the port town, claiming it had “totally collapsed” following the assault on police staff by a group of youth near Kingston Plaza, Vaddem, in the early hours of August 19.
Addressing a press conference, Vasco Block President Nandadeep Raut, along with Minority Chairman Niyazi Shaikh and OBC Chairman Nitin Chopdekar, criticised the government and local MLA over the incident.
Raut said the attack on uniformed police personnel had shaken public confidence. “It is a shame that the police, who are supposed to protect the people and ensure women’s safety, are being openly attacked by a group of youth. The incident occurred when a police jeep with constables had taken an accused for medical examination and came across the group blocking the road while drinking. When questioned, they retaliated by assaulting the cops. This is a very scary situation and clearly shows that law and order in Vasco has totally collapsed,” he said.
Raut further alleged that such incidents were becoming frequent. “This is not the first time. There have been three such instances earlier where youth retaliated against the police. Because of the actions of a small group of people from Mangor, the name of the entire Vasco city is getting spoiled. I hold MLA Krishna Salkar responsible, because instead of taking strict action, he has been promoting them, and this has only encouraged criminal activity,” Raut added.
The Congress leader demanded stern measures from the police. “I urge the Police Inspector, DySP and SP to take this case very seriously. Who would be held responsible if a police officer had been grievously injured or lost his life? The police must not hush up this case or bow to political pressure. They should use video footage available as strong evidence and initiate a very strong case, ensuring the most stringent action against these criminals who are now openly attacking the police,” said Raut.
Shaikh and Chopdekar supported the statements, reiterating that law and order had deteriorated and immediate steps were required to restore public faith.
