Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: A day after activist Rama Kankonkar reignited controversy by alleging that two ministers were behind the assault on him, Goa Police on Sunday said the investigation is being conducted fairly, without political influence or external pressure.
North Goa Superintendent of Police Rahul Gupta asserted that the case would proceed purely on the basis of evidence, not speculation. Speaking at a press briefing at police headquarters in the presence of DGP Alok Kumar, he said the initial, video-recorded statement made by Kankonkar remains the most crucial piece of evidence.
“The first statement has the highest evidential value. Any new versions will be verified carefully before taking further action,” Gupta said. He added that any additions or changes made later are considered “improvements,” which hold less legal weight unless backed by proof.
Gupta also explained the difference between a victim’s statement and an interrogation. “When giving a statement, a person can narrate everything freely. During interrogation, we ask pointed questions related to the case,” he said, adding that Kankonkar may be called again to record an additional statement if required.
Reiterating that police have acted against all those named in the original complaint, Gupta said the investigation so far points to a personal rivalry between the accused and the victim. “Preliminary findings suggest that the attack was planned by accused Minguel Araujo, Francis Nadar and Zenito Cardozo to ‘teach him a lesson’ for allegedly defaming them,” he stated.
The SP said that although the motive appears to be personal, the police are open to verifying every new claim made by the activist. “No evidence of extortion or political involvement has been found yet, but all aspects remain under scrutiny,” he clarified.
Gupta also confirmed that security for Kankonkar and his family remains in place and that the investigation will continue in a fair and transparent manner.
Meanwhile, SDPO Sudesh Naik said that police are investigating Kankonkar’s latest claims naming certain politicians. “These names were not part of the first statement, but we are checking all possibilities. The probe is being carried out without any pressure and strictly on merit,” Naik said.
He added that the police have opposed the bail plea of accused history-sheeter Zenito Cardozo, whose application is scheduled for hearing before the sessions court on Monday.
“We are doing our job professionally. Every statement will be matched with evidence — only facts will decide the case,” Naik said.
