Drug mafia threat is Minister's perception: Parrikar

Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Wednesday sought to make light of Fisheries Minister Vinod Palienkar's remarks about threat to him from the drug mafia, claiming the supposed threat was only his "perception".

"The threat is his perception. Police has to ensure there is no threat. Basically, there is a Special Branch and a Special Committee to analyse this. They will take appropriate action and provide whatever security is required," Parrikar told reporters in Vasco town.

Palienkar claimed his life was under threat from the mafia due to his comments against drug trade and refusal to allow rave parties and electronic dance music festivals in his constituency Siolim.

"People are following me. They seem to know exactly where I am going. I have even given up on my morning walk on the beach. Now, I do brisk walking on the terrace of my house," Palienkar said.

Parrikar said the threat was general in nature and not specific.

"It is not a specific threat. XYZ person cannot be identified. Whenever he is going around, some people could be following him. Possibly, they want to talk to him. You never know," Parrikar said.

Parrikar said those having information to share on drug trade in Goa should contact him and assured them of confidentiality.

"If anyone has information, they can send it to me. I will not reveal the name of the source. I don't feel scared or threatened. I have been the Defence Minister. I know how to take care of myself," the Chief Minister said.

--IANS

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