New Delhi (Agency): On Tuesday, Goa’s law enforcement apprehended three individuals linked to the reported desecration of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s statue near the town of Mapusa.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a revered 17th-century warrior king, holds immense significance in Indian history. When the statue in Karaswada village, North Goa district, was discovered desecrated on Monday morning, it led to swift police action. Soon after, the authorities held three individuals as primary suspects.
Deputy Superintendent of Police, Jivba Dalvi, shared with the media, “On Tuesday, all three – Nigesl Joaquim Fonceca, Alex Fernandes, and Lawrence Mendes – were placed under arrest.” All three detainees reside in Mapusa, as confirmed by Dalvi.
The incident had aroused deep emotions among the locals. On Monday evening, hundreds converged outside the Mapusa police station, vociferously demanding the immediate arrest of the suspects. Their demands were met when the statue, reportedly desecrated on Sunday night, was replaced with a new one by Monday evening. This change was overseen by the state’s social welfare minister, Subhash Phal Desai.
The trio, now under arrest, faced further legal proceedings as shared by DySP Dalvi, “The three accused were remanded in police custody for six days by a court.”
However, the law enforcement officials did not disclose any potential reasons behind this act. The immediate aftermath saw tensions escalating in the local community. The businesses operated by the accused individuals, which were situated in proximity to the statue, fell victim to the public’s wrath, getting vandalized by a mob on Monday night.
Detailing the legal charges against the arrested individuals, Dalvi noted, “The accused were booked under sections 295-A (outraging religious feelings), 153-A (promoting enmity between groups), and 427-A (committing mischief and causing loss) of the Indian Penal Code.” He also assured that the police are actively investigating the matter further.
Acts of desecration or disrespect towards revered figures and monuments have been a sensitive topic in India, often leading to intense public reactions. It remains of utmost importance for law enforcement to act swiftly in such situations to maintain peace and order.
The arrest of these three individuals serves as a strong reminder of the importance of respecting cultural and historical icons, ensuring peace, and fostering mutual respect in diverse communities.