(Review by Mrs. Sonia Desai)
Panaji: This is not just a story about a serial killer; rather, it is a call for awareness, strength, vigilance, and justice. A Silent Inveterate Serial Killer: A Product of “Chalta Hai” Society by Auda Viegas is more than just a crime chronicle—it is a wake-up call for society, a cautionary tale for women, and a call to action against systemic failures. Through the harrowing account of Mahanand Naik’s crimes, Viegas exposes the vulnerabilities in law enforcement, forensic investigations, and society’s passive attitude toward crime. However, what makes this book even more powerful is its underlying message of self-awareness, self-defense, and self-love—a message to all women to recognize their own strength and never fall prey to manipulative predators like Mahanand.
One of the most important takeaways from this book is Viegas’s message to women: “Do not wander in search of love. True love will find you.” The author urges women to look inward, to embrace their own beauty, intelligence, and strength instead of seeking validation from external sources. This statement is a direct counter to Mahanand Naik’s manipulative tactics—he preyed on women by exploiting their vulnerabilities, their desires for love, security, or better opportunities.
The book does not just highlight the crimes of a serial killer—it educates women on the importance of self-awareness, situational awareness, and self-defense. People should read this book as a wake-up call to society. It serves as a powerful critique of the “Chalta Hai” (let it be) attitude, which allows criminals like Mahanand to survive and thrive. The book urges society to hold authorities accountable and demand justice for victims.
This book is not just about crime—it is about survival. Women reading this book will gain valuable insights into how predators manipulate trust, how to recognize warning signs, and how to protect themselves from becoming victims.
One of the book’s key revelations is how poor forensic technology and hasty judicial decisions led to Mahanand’s acquittal multiple times. The book forces readers to question:
- Why does justice fail victims so often?
- How can forensic science be improved to prevent criminals from escaping conviction?
- What role do we, as a society, play in ensuring justice is served?
To conclude, the title A Silent Inveterate Serial Killer is not just a true crime story—it is a guide for change. Auda Viegas delivers a powerful message: Women must recognize their strength, trust their instincts, and prioritize their safety above all. I feel this book should be read by every woman to empower themselves with knowledge and self-protection strategies, to expose justice system flaws that let criminals walk free, and to challenge societal indifference, urging readers to take action.
