PANAJI
As demands for Director General of Police Jaspal Singh's transfer and charging him with abetment in the house demolition case are intensifying, reliable sources have revealed that the State government has expressed utter disappointment over the incident.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has reportedly termed the incident as an embarrassment to Goa. However, he remained unavailable for comment despite repeated attempts by The Goan to contact him.
Sources further revealed that the Ministry of Home Affairs is currently examining the report from the State government which has given details of allegations against DGP Singh, the Assagao house demolition saga, etc. While the MHA's decision is awaited, it is learnt that Goa government is unlikely to wait for a prolonged period and might relieve DGP before the Assembly session begins on July 15.
“The incident has brought embarrassment to the State. If the transfer order takes time, the government might relieve him before the session. Let the transfer order come later,” said sources.
However, despite the controversy, the government has so far remained silent on why action is not taken against Singh including his removal from the post.
Meanwhile, MLA Carlos Ferreira met Sawant on Monday evening demanding that the case be transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation and a judicial probe be initiated against DGP.
He insisted that the judicial inquiry should be conducted by a retired High Court judge and should not involve currently serving police officers.
“There must be a fair investigation. According to the protocol, the DGP should not remain in his position because there is a possibility he could influence the probe. He should be booked for abetment in the demolition case also besides other disciplinary action," Ferreira stated.
He further said that action against Singh should be swift, regardless of whether Goa police currently have a replacement for the highest officer.
When asked if the State government has the authority to relieve a central cadre officer, Ferreira replied in positive. “He should be relieved of all duties and this power is vested with the State government. The Government of India must act quickly. An FIR should be filed against him, and the findings of the judicial inquiry should be submitted,” he added.
