Will finish this goondagiri, extern criminals, says CM

Panaji: Chief minister Pramod Sawant said on Friday that Goa would not tolerate violence, and that govt would take strong action, including externment, against those involved in the assault on activist Rama Kankonkar. The CM said that most of the accused persons have already been identified and arrested, and further investigation is under way to trace others.

He reiterated that those responsible would face stern measures. “Goa will not tolerate such violence. We will finish this kind of goondagiri. Govt will ensure that these goons are externed and banished from Goa. If more people are involved, they will also be arrested. A proper and detailed investigation will be carried out,” he said.

Following demands from protestors, Sawant visited Kankonkar at the GMC, and said that he is responding well to treatment. “All tests and investigations, including a CT scan, have been done. His condition is good. I met his wife too. She asked for police protection here at the hospital and at home, and we will ensure that,” he said.

Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju also expressed confidence in govt’s handling of the issue but subtly admitted that the violent attack could hurt Goa's tourism.

“I am sure that state govt definitely wants to be tourism-friendly and we need to get confidence back in the tourists. And they are working on it. I have confidence in my govt,” he said.

Govt’s statements came hours after a major protest by activists, the opposition, and locals in Panaji, demanding swift action and stricter measures against the accused. Sawant said the ongoing inquiry will examine not only who carried out the assault but also the motive behind it.