Viresh Borkar Raises Alarm Over Rising Rape Cases in Goa

Demands Stronger Preventive Measures

Goa Khabar: Revolutionary Goans Party (RGP) National President and St. Andre MLA Viresh Borkar has expressed serious concern over the number of rape cases reported in Goa and questioned the State government over measures being taken to ensure the safety and security of women and children.

Citing government data presented in the Goa Legislative Assembly, Borkar said the number of registered rape cases rose from 26 in 2021 to 75 in 2022, 97 in 2023 and 109 in 2024. The figure declined marginally to 102 cases in 2025, but Borkar said the numbers continued to remain a matter of serious concern.

“Every rape case represents a life, a family and a future affected by a serious crime. A decline from 109 cases to 102 is not enough for the government to claim that the situation is under control. We need to understand why these crimes are happening and what concrete preventive measures are being implemented,” Borkar said.

Referring to reports based on the NCRB’s Crime in India 2024 data, Borkar said Goa recorded 105 registered rape cases involving 106 survivors, of whom 65 were below the age of 18. He further said Goa recorded a rape rate of 13.3 cases per lakh population, the highest among Indian states that year.

The St. Andre MLA stressed that the issue could not be addressed merely by looking at statistics after crimes had occurred. He called on the government to strengthen preventive measures, policing, investigation, victim support, child protection mechanisms and speedy prosecution.

Borkar also sought greater accountability and stronger coordination between the police, educational institutions, child-protection agencies and local communities.

“Goa must become a state where women and children feel safe not only in tourist areas but in every village, neighbourhood, school and workplace. Prevention must be our first priority, and justice must be swift when a crime occurs,” he said.

The RGP National President urged the government to conduct a comprehensive review of crimes against women and children, identify vulnerable areas, strengthen police presence and response mechanisms, improve forensic investigation and ensure timely legal and psychological support for survivors.

He also demanded that cases involving women and children be investigated with sensitivity and professionalism and that perpetrators be brought to justice without unnecessary delay.

“Goa’s image cannot be protected by hiding uncomfortable statistics. The government must confront the reality, take responsibility and deliver measurable action. The safety of Goans—especially women and children—must come before political publicity,” Borkar said.