Panaji: Goa Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao on Monday condemned the alleged rape of a three-year-old girl in Mapusa and demanded a time-bound investigation and fast-track trial, while calling for stronger measures to protect children in the state.
In a statement, Alemao said he was shaken by the incident and urged the state government to ensure that the child receives the best medical care, counselling and family support, while strictly protecting her identity.
He demanded the immediate arrest of the accused and swift justice through a time-bound investigation and fast-track trial.
“No delay, no leniency,” he said.
Raising concerns over crimes against women and children in Goa, Alemao cited National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, claiming that the state recorded 13.3 rape and child sexual abuse cases per lakh population in 2024, the highest among all states and more than three times the national average.
He further claimed that more than 61 per cent of the survivors were children, while the conviction rate in crimes against women stood at 9.4 per cent and over 91 per cent of cases remained pending.
“Goa, once known for safe streets, now carries this shameful distinction. Citizens feel they are on their own. The government must answer for this failure,” he said.
The Congress leader demanded the establishment of more fast-track courts under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, stronger policing and a time-bound action plan to protect children.
He said the Opposition would pursue the case until justice was delivered.
