Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji

Panaji, Apr 17: A wave of local protest erupted in North Goa after a 17-year-old Dalit girl was allegedly sexually harassed on her way to a store. Residents accused the police of delayed action, prompting the transfer of a sub-inspector to police lines.

The incident, which occurred on Monday, involved an employee of the electricity department who is now accused of sexually harassing the minor, using casteist slurs, and tearing her shirt. According to the First Information Report (FIR) filed by the girl's father on Tuesday night, the accused also threatened her with "dire consequences."

Frustration over the perceived lack of police response led the victim's family and community members to stage a protest at the local police station, demanding the immediate arrest of the accused. In response, police have initiated an inquiry into the alleged delay in the investigation.

The FIR lists charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections 352 (intention insult with intent to provoke breach of peace), 79 (words, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman), 74 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 75 (sexual harassment), 351(3) (criminal intimidation), as well as the Goa Children Act and the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

Police have stated that the accused is currently absconding, and teams have been formed to apprehend him.