Goa CM Pramod Sawant promises strict action against IPS officer for misbehaving with woman

Vijai Sardesai, president of Goa Forward Party raised the issue in the House. “There are news reports that an IPS officer has misbehaved with a party-goer. Suspend him and relieve him [of his duties]. This is a blot on the police,” said Sardesai.

In the afternoon session, Michael Lobo, the BJP MLA from Calangute, also demanded action against the senior police officer, demanding his immediate suspension.

Tourism minister Rohan Khaunte said he would speak to the chief minister regarding the incident. “Action needs to be taken against anyone who acts immorally,” said Khaunte.

According to sources, the IPS officer visited a beach-facing night club in the Baga area late on Monday night.

“A woman was partying with her friends at the club. Around 4 am, the IPS officer accosted the woman and passed some objectionable remarks. The woman then slapped the IPS officer,” said a source.

Club staff declined to comment on the matter. Police sources said that the IPS officer had been on leave on medical grounds, for a spondylitis related neck ailment, since the past few days. According to the police, the woman – a tourist – has not lodged a complaint in the matter. According to sources, a police team examined the CCTV footage of the club as part of a preliminary enquiry.

On whether an inquiry has been initiated against the IPS officer, Goa DGP Jaspal Singh, said, “A report has been sent to the government regarding facts and circumstances of the case. The call [regarding inquiry and further action] has to be taken by the government.”