Panaji: The Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has issued a notice to the police inspector of Fatorda police station, calling for a report and presence at a hearing on February 29 at 10.30 am. This comes after Lt Col Jesus Furtado filed a petition with the GHRC, alleging that Superintendent of Police (SP) Bossuet Silva’s dogs attacked him, causing level-three injuries.
Furtado had initially approached the Goa police, the Chief Minister, and the state government regarding the incident, but no action was taken. When his efforts went unanswered, he decided to seek help from the GHRC.
On October 31, 2020, Furtado filed a written complaint with the Fatorda police station, stating that while he was out for a morning stroll, SP Silva was walking his dogs, two of which were unleashed. The unleashed dogs allegedly attacked Furtado, causing a serious injury to his leg. Furtado claims that despite the attack, Silva did not command his dogs to stop or intervene. Instead, Silva walked away with his dogs.
No FIR was registered, and I had to run from pillar to post seeking justice, Furtado expressed his frustration. When I approached the Chief Minister, he ordered an inquiry.
However, even after the Chief Secretary issued directions, the inquiry was not completed. Furtado mentioned that three earlier police inquiries had declared the SP innocent and blamed his own nervousness for instigating the dogs. This led Furtado to turn to the GHRC for assistance.
In a report on November 13, 2020, Fatorda Police Inspector Kapil Nayak stated, During the inquiry, SP Silva remained present at the police station and claimed that the incident was an accident, with no intention on his part. Silva also provided a detailed record of the vaccinations administered to his dogs.
Silva was reportedly walking his dogs near his residence on Bernardo Costa Road in Margao.
Furtado has been informed about the inquiry and the vaccination record, as stated by Nayak.
The GHRC’s notice to the police inspector of Fatorda police station signifies an important development in Furtado’s pursuit of justice after the alleged dog attack. The hearing scheduled for February 29 will provide an opportunity for the concerned parties to present their reports and arguments.
Furtado’s case highlights the need for a thorough investigation and fair consideration of all evidence. The GHRC’s involvement brings hope to Furtado, who seeks accountability and believes that justice has been delayed in this matter.
As the proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen how the GHRC will weigh the evidence and ensure a just resolution to the complaint filed by Lt Col Jesus Furtado.
