During a podcast with Goencho News, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Goa President Amit Palekar raised concerns about the state of law and order in the state, pointing to the politicization of the police force as a major issue. Drawing from his 25 years of experience as a defense lawyer, Palekar highlighted a decline in the professionalism and efficiency of the Goa Police.
He cited the escape of Suleman Siddique, a land grab accused who managed to flee from the custody of the Crime Branch, likening it to a hotel checkout. Siddique’s escape beyond Goa’s borders and his eventual re-arrest in Kerala after nine days revealed glaring lapses in the vigilance of the Goa Police.
Palekar also criticized the selective approach of investigations within the police department. While he was subjected to intense scrutiny, he pointed out that others, including SP Crime Branch Rahul Gupta, DySP Suraj, and Deputy Speaker Joshua D’Souza, who faced allegations, were not similarly investigated. He questioned why the opposition was singled out while others were not held accountable.
He accused certain police officers of corruption and harassment of the common people, alleging that the force has become a tool for political manipulation. Palekar further stated that such actions reflect the declining standards of law enforcement in Goa. Despite this, he affirmed that AAP would not be intimidated and would continue to stand against these practices.
