Chief Minister Pramod Sawant made a significant announcement in the Goa assembly on Wednesday. He confirmed that the state transport department has issued a new circular. This circular makes it mandatory for both the rider and the pillion rider on two-wheelers to wear helmets in Goa.
Supreme Court Guidelines Prompt Immediate Action
The chief minister stated that this directive follows recent Supreme Court guidelines focused on road safety. Sawant emphasized that this measure will directly help reduce fatalities from road accidents across the state. He expressed confidence in the rule's positive impact.
Aldona MLA Carlos Almeida raised a question during the session. He asked the government about its timeline for implementing the broader Supreme Court road safety guidelines dated October 7, 2025. These guidelines include the helmet mandate for all two-wheeler occupants.
In response, CM Sawant clarified that the transport department has already taken the first step. Instructions have been issued to enforce helmet-wearing for pillion riders without delay.
Assembly Debate Shifts to Rising Crime in Goa
The discussion in the House then turned to the concerning issue of crime in the state. Leader of the Opposition Yuri Alemao presented stark statistics. He warned that if murders continue to increase at the current rate, Goa risks being labeled the murder capital of India.
Alemao provided detailed figures to support his argument. He reported that in 2025 alone, Goa registered 102 cases of rape and 374 cases of dacoity. He highlighted that murders have shown the most significant upward trend over the past five years. Alarmingly, he pointed out that the conviction rate has not kept pace with this rise in crimes.
"Crime against women, rapes, and murders are rising," Alemao stated firmly. "Goa is becoming a jungle raj. Preventive policing has failed."
Government's Response and Counter-Arguments
Chief Minister Sawant addressed these concerns directly. He acknowledged that migration for work has contributed to an increase in criminal activities within Goa. However, he was quick to outline the government's proactive measures.
"Crime detection rate is more than 86% in Goa, which is the highest in the country," Sawant asserted. He detailed the police response system, noting that support reaches any location in Goa within eight minutes of receiving a distress call.
The CM listed several ongoing initiatives to strengthen law and order:
- Increased tenant verification drives.
- Work to link all existing CCTVs for enhanced surveillance.
- Assurances that the situation is being brought under control.
Sawant urged the assembly to look at recent data. He claimed that while annual figures show an increase, the number of crimes registered in recent months has actually declined.
Opposition leader Alemao countered the CM's point about migration. He argued that migrants should not be blamed for all crimes. Alemao cited recent cases with equal involvement from local residents, suggesting a more complex issue.
Chief Minister Sawant concluded with a firm assurance to the House. He promised that the government is taking concrete steps. These measures, he said, will prevent any further rise in crimes committed in Goa in the future.
