The ruthless death of Haryana BJP Leader Sonali Phogat in Goa on August 23rd only further exposes how Goa has been evolving into a very unsafe destination. The warning signs have been flashing red for a long time so it should come as no surprise. The menace of Casinos, drugs and flourishing flesh trade being all interlinked, and as expected it is taking a toll on Goa’s reputation.
Prior to 2012 the BJP had vehemently opposed Casinos while branding them as dens of vice, but after coming to Power have allowed them to flourish as they are now ATMs for the ruling Ministers and MLAs.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had recently urged the media fraternity to ensure that Goa’s image is not marred. Does Pramod Sawant realise what a huge bad impact the Sonali Phogat saga has had on our once peaceful and tranquil State. And how did the Chief Minister have the audacity to first blurt out without a full investigation that her death was due to a heart attack? The Chief Minister should not prejudice the probe but allow the police to get to the bottom of the rot and also investigate whether there is a casino linked angle to the alleged rape and murder of Sonali Phogat.If a celebrity like Sonali Phogat was not safe in Goa, only God can save the common man. The Police as a matter of priority and duty must ensure that all necessary steps are put in place to protect lives and property and stop the rapidly worsening crime rate from getting out of control.
The recent laughable public advisory by the Police that during this Ganesh festival people should not keep valuable items at home but should carry it with them is a matter of concern. Is it not a public admission that there is a collapse in law and order and that the law enforcement officials are unable to take responsibility for policing our streets and keeping us safe from crime and criminals?
May the Sonali Phogat tragedy be an eye-opener and a catalyst for the Government to put in place urgent and much better crime prevention and detection measures and fulfil their promises by eradicating the menace of the vices that lead to many lives lost.
