GaonkaariPanaji: The Goa Pradesh Mahila Congress has extended support to victims and families affected by the alleged Curchorem sex scandal, raising serious concerns over institutional gaps and the lack of functional grievance redressal mechanisms in the state.
Delegation Seeks Urgent Intervention
A delegation led by Mahila Congress President Dr. Pratiksha Khalap submitted a memorandum to the Goa State Commission for Women, urging immediate intervention.
Addressing the media, Dr. Khalap highlighted the gravity of the incident, involving a 20-year-old accused currently in police custody for allegedly circulating explicit videos of minor girls.
She cautioned that the scale of the crime could be wider, with the possibility of multiple perpetrators.
Institutional Vacuum Raises Concerns
Expressing concern over institutional lapses, Dr. Khalap pointed out that the tenure of the State Commission for Women has expired, rendering it non-functional at a critical time.
“There is no active forum to address such grave issues,” she said, adding that this vacuum has increased the vulnerability of victims and their families.
Mahila Congress Offers Support to Victims
The Mahila Congress has offered to act as a support bridge for victims hesitant to approach the police.
Assuring complete confidentiality, Dr. Khalap said the organisation would assist survivors in reporting cases safely while protecting their identity.
Jawahar Bal Manch Chairperson Pelajia Pires, part of the delegation, also appealed to parents to come forward without fear and shared her contact details, reinforcing outreach efforts.
Key Demands Raised
The delegation demanded immediate action, including:
- Suo motu cognisance of the case
- Formation of a special investigation and victim support committee
- Close coordination with law enforcement for a sensitive and thorough probe
- Denial of bail to the accused considering the seriousness of the allegations
Call for Long-Term Reforms
Calling for systemic changes, the Mahila Congress advocated:
- Anonymous complaint mechanisms
- Safer reporting systems
- Mandatory awareness programmes in schools and colleges on digital safety, consent, and reporting abuse
Commitment to Justice and Accountability
Mahila Congress leaders Adv Shabnam Khan and Adv Lavinia D’Costa reiterated their commitment to ensuring justice and accountability.
“This is not just one case, it is a wake-up call,” Dr. Khalap said, urging NGOs and civil society to come together to address the growing concerns.
