Goa Congress MLA Condemns Police Action in Baga Prostitution Video Case
Congress MLA Carlos Alvares Ferreira has launched a scathing attack on the Goa police, accusing them of taking illegal action by booking the individual who uploaded a video showing customers being solicited for prostitution at Baga. Ferreira asserted that the Uttar Pradesh resident was targeted merely to save the government from embarrassment over the declining state of Goa's tourism.
Ferreira's Allegations of Flawed Police Procedure
Ferreira stated, "The action of the police is totally flawed. Perhaps the police registered the offence at the direction of some higher-ups, or political masters. So-called customers cannot be booked or arrested at all. Secondly, what we saw was a woman who was soliciting in a public place." He emphasized that there is nothing obscene in the uploaded video, and recording and uploading such footage does not constitute an offence.
He further criticized the police for failing to apply their minds, noting, "The registration of an FIR when no cognisable offence is made out shows the police have not applied their mind." Ferreira alleged that this move is part of a broader pattern where authorities turn a blind eye to misconduct to avoid negative publicity.
Broader Context of Tourism and Illegal Activities in Goa
Ferreira highlighted ongoing issues in Goa's tourism sector, pointing out that videos, news, and messages are shared daily about tourists causing disturbances, abusing locals, reckless driving leading to accidents, and other illegal activities. He claimed that such behaviors persist because antisocial elements are bribing officials, allowing immoral acts to continue unchecked.
This incident underscores growing concerns about law enforcement priorities and the impact on Goa's reputation as a tourist destination. Ferreira's comments reflect a call for accountability and transparency in policing, urging authorities to focus on genuine crimes rather than targeting whistleblowers.
