Dr Pratiksha Khalap Condemns Derogatory Remarks Against RGP Woman Leader; Demands Action Against Ajay Kholkar and Arrest of PI Vikas Deykar in POCSO Case

Goa Pradesh Mahila Congress President Questions BJP Government Over Women’s Safety; Says Insulting Women in Politics and Allegations of Sexual Assault Against a Police Officer Demand Serious Action

Goa Khabar: Goa Pradesh Mahila Congress Committee President Dr Pratiksha Khalap strongly condemned the derogatory, objectionable and sexually inappropriate remarks made by Ajay Kholkar against Revolutionary Goans Party (RGP) State President Shavina Naik Shirodkar. Addressing a press conference, Dr Khalap demanded an investigation into Kholkar’s statements and appropriate legal action.

Dr Khalap said that the nature of the alleged remarks reflected a disturbing level of disrespect towards women participating in public and political life.

“Political differences are part of democracy, but nobody has the right to insult, humiliate or make sexually derogatory remarks against a woman. Ajay Kholkar has exposed the level of his political discourse through his alleged comments against Shavina Naik Shirodkar. Such language has absolutely no place in a civilised democratic society,” Dr Khalap stated.

She emphasised that the Congress Party and Goa Pradesh Mahila Congress Committee unequivocally condemn such behaviour, irrespective of the political affiliation of the woman targeted.

“Shavina Naik Shirodkar belongs to another political party, but that does not matter when the question concerns the dignity and respect of women. Our political differences cannot prevent us from standing up against the humiliation of any woman. An attack on the dignity of one woman in public life is a matter of concern for every woman,” she said.

Dr Khalap demanded that Ajay Kholkar tender an immediate, public and unconditional apology to Shavina Naik Shirodkar. She also urged the authorities to examine the alleged remarks and initiate action in accordance with the law.

“People who believe that women can be silenced through vulgar language, personal attacks and character assassination must be held accountable. Women entering politics deserve respect, equal opportunity and freedom from intimidation,” she added.

Demands Arrest of PI Vikas Deykar in Minor Girl Sexual Assault Case

Raising another serious issue concerning the safety of women and children in Goa, Dr Khalap demanded a thorough, independent and impartial investigation into the allegations of sexual assault against a minor girl involving Crime Branch Police Inspector Vikas Deykar.

She expressed grave concern that an officer entrusted with protecting citizens has been accused of sexually assaulting a minor girl inside the Crime Branch premises at Ribandar.

According to the registered complaint, the alleged incidents occurred on July 25 and October 27, 2026. Old Goa Police have registered an FIR against PI Vikas Deykar and another accused, Ranjini Palyekar, under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Sections 10 and 12 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Dr Khalap questioned why the accused police inspector had not been arrested despite the seriousness of the allegations and the registration of the FIR.

“When a police officer himself faces such serious allegations involving a minor girl, the government must demonstrate that nobody is above the law. Why has PI Vikas Deykar not been arrested? Is the law being applied equally to an ordinary citizen and a police officer? The people of Goa deserve answers,” she stated.

Referring to the reported suspension of the officer, Dr Khalap said that departmental action alone cannot substitute for a thorough criminal investigation.

“Suspension is an administrative measure, not a substitute for criminal accountability. We demand that the investigating authorities take immediate steps towards his arrest in accordance with the law, ensure that evidence is preserved and conduct a fair investigation without any interference or influence,” she said.

Dr Khalap further demanded that investigators examine all relevant CCTV footage, record statements of witnesses and establish whether there were procedural violations, negligence or attempts to shield anyone involved.

She stressed that the minor girl must receive full protection, appropriate counselling, legal assistance and support, while her identity and privacy must be strictly safeguarded.

BJP Government Must Answer for Women’s Safety in Goa

Dr Khalap also questioned the BJP government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and dignity of women and minor girls in the state.

“The BJP government repeatedly speaks about women’s empowerment and safety. But what happens when women face public humiliation and a minor girl makes serious allegations against a police officer? Women need protection, justice and accountability, not merely speeches and publicity,” she said.

She called upon Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant, who holds the Home portfolio, to ensure that the investigation into the POCSO case proceeds independently and transparently.

“The government must explain what safeguards exist to protect women and children who approach police stations seeking assistance. A police station should be a place of safety and justice, never a place where a complainant fears exploitation or abuse of authority,” Dr Khalap asserted.

She urged the government to review safeguards for women and minors visiting police stations, including the presence of appropriate personnel, adherence to child-protection procedures and accountability for violations.

Concluding the press conference, Dr Khalap reiterated that the Goa Pradesh Mahila Congress Committee would continue raising issues concerning women’s dignity, safety and access to justice.

“Our stand is clear. Whether it is derogatory remarks against a woman political leader or serious allegations of sexual assault against a minor girl, there must be accountability. Political influence, official position or power must never become a shield against the law. Women and children in Goa deserve dignity, safety and justice,” Dr Khalap concluded.