Sawant drew sharp criticism on social media platforms and demands for an apology escalated when he told the state assembly on Wednesday that juveniles, especially minors, “should not spend nights on beaches”. He had also said, “When 14-year-olds stay on the beach all night, parents need to introspect. Just because kids don’t listen, we can’t put the onus on the government and the police.”
“My statement regarding the unfortunate incident was taken out of context. As the head of a responsible government and as the father of a 14 year old daughter, I was deeply saddened and upset. The pain of this incident is inexplicable,” Sawant said on Friday. “I reiterate that there will be no compromise in matters relating to the safety of our children. Let there be no room for misunderstanding. Let us trust each other. Let us unite as one Goa so that all such evils can be defeated with all our might.”
The Chief Minister further said, “I have never tried to deny my right to protection given by my law. Goa Police It has been a truly professional force especially when it comes to the safety of women and children. They have already acted swiftly and arrested the accused, and I assure you that I will ensure that the guilty get the harshest punishment as per law. The safety of our citizens is always the top priority of my government.
“Safety of children, especially minors, should be a shared responsibility. Our right to security has to be further strengthened with more caution. Children, especially minors, need the guidance of their elders,” he said.
The Chief Minister said that curfew has been imposed in the state and there is a ban on people going to public places. “So when I spoke about a shared responsibility for minor children, it was out of concern, care and love for my fellow citizens and our children. We all love our children. As the Chief Minister, my The concern is with all the children of Goa.
“I, as a person and as a Chief Minister, can never directly, indirectly or remotely hurt the sentiments of my fellow citizens of Goa. I put it on record today,” Sawant said.
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