MLA leads Colva protest over cop reposting

Colva: Tensions resurfaced in Colva on Friday as MLA Venzy Viegas led villagers in a protest opposing PI Vikram Naik’s reposting to Colva police station.

The demonstrators initially gathered at the South Goa SP’s office and then moved to Colva police station, demanding Naik’s immediate transfer. The officer had recently been reinstated after a brief stint away from the post.

The agitation began on Feb 10, when Naik allegedly visited Fr Polly Lobo at Colva church over a property dispute involving a local and a Delhi-based builder. The visit sparked outrage among villagers, who accused the officer of misconduct.

Following the incident, villagers led by Viegas protested at the police station for several hours, demanding Naik’s transfer, a public apology, and the registration of an FIR against him. Authorities had temporarily transferred Naik to the South district reserve line to defuse the situation.

Superintendent of police Siddanth Shirodkar later met the MLA and villagers, urging them to disperse while assuring that higher authorities will review the matter. However, Viegas remained firm on his demand for Naik’s removal.