Daijiworld Media Network - Colva

Colva, Mar 20: Tensions resurfaced in Colva on Friday as local MLA Venzy Viegas led villagers in a protest opposing the reposting of police inspector Vikram Naik to the Colva police station.

The demonstrators first gathered at the South Goa Superintendent of Police’s office before marching to the Colva police station, demanding Naik’s immediate transfer. The officer had recently been reinstated after a brief transfer out of the post.

The controversy dates back to February 10, when Naik allegedly visited Fr Polly Lobo at Colva church in connection with a property dispute involving a local resident and a Delhi-based builder. The visit triggered outrage among villagers, who accused the officer of misconduct.

Following the incident, residents led by Viegas staged a prolonged protest at the police station, seeking Naik’s transfer, a public apology, and the registration of an FIR against him. In response, authorities had shifted Naik to the South district reserve line in an attempt to ease tensions.

Superintendent of Police Siddanth Shirodkar later met the MLA and protestors, urging them to disperse while assuring that higher authorities would review the matter.

However, Viegas remained firm, reiterating the demand for Naik’s removal as protests intensified in the coastal village.