Dacoities signal alarming surge in crime
Goa was shaken by a series of daring dacoities reported in a single day at Parra, Nuvem and Verna spanning both North and South Goa. The strike at Nuvem took place early in the morning. The striking similarity in the modus operandi has led to strong suspicion that the crimes were carried out by the same gang. These incidents come close on the heels of the earlier dacoity at Baina, clearly indicating a disturbing rise in organised criminal activity across the state. With incidents reported in both districts within hours, it suggests not only planning and coordination but also a confidence among criminals that they can operate without fear of being intercepted. This has naturally created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among citizens. Many localities report deserted roads after dark, with police presence either minimal or completely absent. In such conditions, criminal elements find it easier to strike, escape, and regroup for further offences. Increased and consistent night patrolling must be treated as a priority, not only in urban centers but also in villages and industrial areas. Regular mobile patrols, nakabandis at vulnerable points, and coordination between police stations in North and South Goa are essential to deter such gangs. Use of technology such as CCTV monitoring, GPS-enabled patrol vehicles, and quick-response teams can further strengthen policing efforts. Community policing initiatives, better communication between residents and local police, and prompt action on intelligence inputs can go a long way in preventing future crimes. The recent spate of dacoities should serve as a wake-up call. Stronger night patrolling and proactive policing are no longer optional. They are essential to restore safety, trust and peace among Goans.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Saligao road saga
The restoration work of the iconic heritage road, popularly known as ‘Saligaoncho bandh’ (starting from the culvert just after the Saligao cemetery and heading right upto the main road of Arrarim near Padmanabh building) was inaugurated with much funfair by the local MLA Kedar Naik in the presence of the Saligao Sarpanch Lucas Remedios and a few of the MLAs in the last week of November 2025. A few coconuts were broken and big speeches were delivered at the time of the said inauguration by the Sarpanch and the MLA’s supporters to give him some free publicity as if he has done a big favour by finally taking up the restoration work of the above mentioned road in Saligao. It should be noted that the above-mentioned road was in a horrible condition and was neglected for the last so many years for unknown reasons despite of filing repeated complaints in the panchayat for its restoration by people using this road on a daily basis. Well, the restoration work of the said road, starting from the culvert after Saligao cemetery was finally taken up just before the ZP elections and mysteriously ended near the culvert area of Mario Venancio Cordeiro’s huge factory somewhere in December 2025. The remaining stretch heading right up towards the main road of Arrarim, near Padmanabh building was left and has still been kept incomplete even to this day. I think that the local MLA Kedar Naik, Sarpanch Lucas Remedios and the MLAs supporters need to tell the people using this particular road as to why the half stretch mentioned above has still been kept incomplete and when it will be completed. Or are they waiting to break some more coconuts, deliver big speeches in favour of their MLA and to restore the remaining stretch at the time of the next assembly elections in Goa?
Jerry Fernandes, Saligao
Digital violence increasing
Over the years, India has seen a rise in cases of online image-based sexual abuse. Often, digitally altered sexually explicit images are shared on social media without the victim’s consent. This not only exposes victims to public humiliation but also leaves lasting stigma that is difficult to overcome. By the time any action is taken, such content may have already reached thousands of viewers. The indifferent attitude of law enforcement often silences survivors, leaving them resigned to their fate. While the Information Technology (Amendment) Rules require platforms to remove offensive content within 24 hours, delays are common, and once content goes online, it is virtually impossible to erase.
Venu G S, Kollam
Rising living costs
Money feels more expensive in India due to rising costs for essentials such as food, rent, daily needs, housing, and healthcare. Savings are hard to accumulate, and unemployment or slow salary growth for many has outpaced the rise in living expenses. This has led to a perceived decline in purchasing power, particularly among the middle class and the poorest segments of society. In brief, despite strong economic growth, high inflation on daily necessities, housing, education, and healthcare makes money feel “expensive” and less effective for ordinary Indians. While we often say money isn’t everything, in today’s context, it has become more powerful than ever.
Rajesh Banaulikar, Arpora
