Congress slams Goa's BJP-led government for unchecked crime

The Congress legislative party (CLP) of Goa alleged here today that the rise in casinos and women-related crimes remains unchecked due to the failure of the Goa home minister to hold crime review meetings.

The CLP chaired by leader of opposition Pratapsingh Rane condemned the rising crimes related to casinos and violence against women in Goa.

CLP spokesman Aleixo Reginaldo said that the Goa home minister had failed to hold review meetings to study the possibility if these crimes could be nipped in the bud.

"There is a steep increase in the crime rate, so much so, that there is a 71 per cent increase in crimes against women in Goa. This in comparison is above than other states which figure grossly on crime lists," Reginaldo told reporters here.

He said that there have been instances of murders for the sake of gold and property, which is deplorable.

"Goa Chief Minister Parrikar should introspect and take proper action so that these crimes can be stopped," the Congress leader said.

The CLP also discussed casino-related crimes in Goa, which CLP members said, are on the rise.

"Casino-related crimes have increased and the social fabric of the state is also partly disturbed due to increased gambling," he said.

Congress leaders conceded that licences for many offshore casinos were granted by their own party.

"But just like the Manohar Parrikar government scrapped government jobs given by former rulers, it could have very well taken action against casinos," Reginaldo said.

The opposition also demanded that the Goa government should finalise its regional plan immediately, since absence of a land use plan had resulted in illegal constructions and corruption.