The Catholic Association of Goa (CAG) condemns, in the strongest terms, the brutal rape of an innocent three-year-old girl at Mapuca yesterday. A child who should have been safe in her mother’s arms, learning to walk and laugh, has instead been scarred by unimaginable cruelty. Our hearts break for her and her family, and we stand with them in prayer and solidarity.
The Executive Committee of the Catholic Association of Goa met today and passed a resolution condemning this heinous crime. The CAG has called on the Government to pull up its socks when it comes to public safety, and to treat the protection of children as an urgent priority.
“This is not an isolated tragedy. It is a symptom of a deeper rot. Goa’s social standards are falling, and the law and order situation grows more alarming with every such incident,” lamented Mr. Cyril Fernandes, President of CAG during the monthly Executive Committee meeting. “We are told that Goa is progressing, but a society that cannot protect its smallest and most helpless children is regressing. The growing threat of Goa becoming the rape capital of India should shame every one of us into action,” he continued.
CAG stated that they hold the Government accountable. Repeated crimes against women and children show its failure to curb crime, ensure swift policing, and deliver fast convictions. Assurances after each tragedy are no longer enough. Goans need visible, effective action such as stricter patrolling, fast-track trials, and zero tolerance for offenders, stated the Pressnote.
CAG further sought self-introspection from all Goans too. Goans must also look at ourselves. Civil society, including parents, neighbours, institutions and community leaders, has stayed silent for too long. Our silence emboldens evil. It lets predators believe they can act without fear.
CAG appeals to the conscience of the Government to act now, and act decisively. It directed the Government to ensure the culprit is arrested and punished to the fullest extent of the law, and make the safety of children a true priority.
CAG further called on all Goans to rise above silence and demand justice and safety for our children.
Issued by
Cyril Fernandes
President