24/09/2025
Demand for Transparent Investigation in Rama Kankonkar Assault Case: Allegations of a Senior Minister’s Involvement
The recent assault on prominent activist Rama Kankonkar has stirred a wave of controversy and calls for justice in Goa. While the police have made strides by arresting a key accused, Zenito Cardozo, questions linger over the thoroughness and impartiality of the ongoing investigation. Carlos Alvares Ferreira, a vocal political figure and activist, has openly criticized the probe, alleging that the true mastermind behind the attack is a sitting cabinet minister, whom he terms the ‘Godfather General.’ This claim has intensified public demand for a transparent and exhaustive inquiry to restore faith in law enforcement and governance.
The Incident
On a seemingly ordinary afternoon, Rama Kankonkar and his friend Soiru Velip were at a restaurant in Caranzalem when six assailants launched a brutal attack on the activist. CCTV evidence shows the assailants, armed with a suspected cycle chain, tearing Kankonkar’s shirt, assaulting him, dragging him onto the road, and even humiliating him by rubbing cow dung on his face. The assailants brazenly documented their act, photographing Kankonkar before fleeing the scene on two-wheelers. Despite the attack occurring in a busy area with numerous onlookers, no one intervened, reportedly scared due to the attackers’ blatant aggression and weaponry.
Kankonkar was rushed to Goa Medical College for treatment, and the incident shocked the public, igniting discussions about the deteriorating law and order situation in the state.
Police Action and Arrests
The North Goa Police, led by SP Rahul Gupta, responded by arresting five accused individuals the same day, all history-sheets, including Anthony Nadar, Francis Nadar, Minguel Araujo, Manish Hadfadkar, and Suresh Naik. Days later, the police nabbed Zenito Cardozo, a known criminal with multiple past cases, identified as a significant figure orchestrating the attack.
SP Gupta stated that although Zenito was the prime accused, the motive remained uncertain, suggesting a previous enmity might have led to the violent act. The investigation continues, with police asking the public’s patience and assuring further arrests if necessary.
Allegations Against a Senior Minister
Amid these developments, Carlos Alvares Ferreira has raised serious concerns about the investigation’s integrity. Ferreira argues that focusing solely on Zenito as the mastermind is a diversion tactic, shielding the ‘Godfather General’—a nickname for a reportedly powerful sitting cabinet minister suspected of ordering the attack. Ferreira refers to the minister as part of the ruling party’s ‘goonda’ elements, implicating a broader systemic problem within the government.
In press statements and public appearances, Ferreira condemned the selective narrative crafted by police officials, particularly criticizing SP Rahul Gupta’s claim that the attack was just the result of personal enmity between Kankonkar and Zenito. He insists that such a stance ignores underlying political vendettas and protects influential figures who operate with impunity.
Demand for Accountability
Ferreira has called upon Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to take decisive action by removing ‘goonda’ ministers and MLAs from the cabinet, warning that failure to address these elements would only exacerbate lawlessness and promote a ‘gang war’ culture in Goa.
He highlighted the gravity of the situation by drawing an analogy with historical authoritarian regimes, recalling how opposition voices were violently suppressed during Hitler’s era. Ferreira warned that Goa, and India at large, risk descending into a state where freedom of speech is curtailed through intimidation by agencies like the Enforcement Directorate, CBI, and income tax authorities, targeting dissenters.
“There is an unwritten emergency prevailing across the country and in our state,” Ferreira stated. “People who dare to speak against the ruling government face harassment and violence. The assault on Rama Kankonkar is a chilling reminder of these times.”
Political and Public Reaction
The narrative surrounding the assault and subsequent investigations has polarized public opinion and political discourse. Opposition parties and civil rights activists have intensified calls for an independent judicial inquiry to unravel the full truth behind the attack.
Meanwhile, the ruling government's response has been calm but firm, with Chief Minister Sawant condemning the attack and urging the police to bring the culprits to justice. However, critics claim that decisive action against accused political figures remains elusive.
Public protests and social media campaigns have emerged, demanding justice for Kankonkar and transparency in the investigation. Citizens express concern over growing criminal influences in politics and fear for Goa’s democratic fabric.
Law and Order in Goa
This case also reignites broader concerns about the state of law and order in Goa. Citizens and activists argue that political interference in legal proceedings undermines the rule of law and promotes a culture where powerful individuals act above accountability.
The involvement of alleged ‘goonda’ ministers and MLAs, as indicated by critics like Ferreira, calls for urgent systemic reforms. Law enforcement agencies are urged to operate autonomously without political pressure, ensuring safety and justice for all citizens.
Conclusion
The Rama Kankonkar assault case symbolizes a critical test for Goa’s governance and justice systems. With high-stakes political intrigue and urgent calls for truth, the investigation’s outcome will significantly impact public trust.
Ferreira’s allegations and demands highlight the necessity of accountability and strong institutions to safeguard democracy and law enforcement integrity. The Chief Minister and police must act transparently, ensuring no individual, regardless of political stature, is above the law.
As this story continues to unfold, the eyes of Goa and the nation remain fixed on the quest for justice, transparency, and the preservation of democratic values.
