Pernem MLA’s Silence on Minor Assault Case Sparks Outrage in Dalit Community
Pernem, Goa | April 18, 2025:
Tensions are high in Pernem as the Dalit community across Goa demands justice in the case of a minor Dalit girl who was assaulted and subjected to casteist abuse on April 14, 2025 — the birth anniversary of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, a revered figure in the Dalit community.
The accused, Samir Korgoankar, is yet to be arrested, even five days after the incident. What’s more disturbing is that the First Information Report (FIR) was not filed immediately. The police allegedly delayed taking action, forcing community members to launch a “Dharmaan Andolan” (peaceful protest) on 15 April inside the police station that lasted until midnight. It was only after sustained pressure that police finally filed the FIR on April 16 at 1:00 AM.
Apathy from Elected Representatives
Pernem is a reserved constituency for the Scheduled Caste community, yet the MLA of Pernem, Pravin Arlekar who belongs to the same community, has maintained complete silence. He has not visited the victim’s family, made no public statement, and has failed to condemn the incident. This has led to widespread criticism and calls for his resignation, with people questioning whether he is truly a representative of the Dalits or merely serving other political interests.
Community Feels Betrayed
Dalit leaders and citizens are questioning why a reserved seat still sees so many atrocities go unchecked. “The MLA was elected to be our voice, but his silence speaks volumes,” said a local activist. Many are also criticizing the Here’s a grammatically correct and clearer version of your sentence:
“BJP Pernem Mandal President Sidesh Pednekar, who also belongs to the Scheduled Caste community, failed to raise the issue or offer support to the victim’s family. The Scheduled Caste community felt betrayed by this elected representative, who holds political positions only because of the reservation provided to the community, yet has failed to stand up for their concerns.”
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Scheduled Caste and Schedule Tribe Commission Steps In
Amid public outrage, a representative from the Goa Scheduled Caste Commission visited the victim’s home and assured the family that the matter would be taken seriously. The visit, while appreciated, has not eased public anger over the lack of immediate police and political response.
Police Under Fire for Bias
The Pernem police are now under intense scrutiny. There are allegations that certain officers favoured the accused, which led to the delay in registering the FIR and initiating the investigation. Public protests forced the transfer of the Police Sub-Inspector but the accused is still missing.
“Why are the police always silent or slow when it comes to atrocities against Scheduled Castes?” asked one community leader. “This isn’t justice. This is protection for the accused.”
Latest Police Status (As of April 18):
- Accused Samir Korgoankar is still absconding.
- Raids are being conducted, but the police have yet to track him.
- No anticipatory bail has been filed by the accused so far.
- An internal police inquiry has been launched
Conclusion:
The Scheduled Caste community in Goa is once again facing the harsh reality of delayed justice. As protests gain momentum and community anger intensifies, the silence of political leaders — especially the Pernem MLA — is being seen not just as negligence but as betrayal.
For now, the community waits:
- For the arrest of Samir Korgoankar.
- For accountability from the police department.
- And for their elected representative to finally break his silence.
Justice delayed is justice denied. The people of Pernem — and all of Goa — are watching.
