Goa police grill organisers over funding, intent behind pro-Umar Khalid placards during student protest: Report

Goa Authorities Probe Funding and Motives Behind Pro-Khalid Student Demonstrations

Investigation Launched Following Complaint About Placards

Theindiapostdaily.com – Coastal state law enforcement officials have been questioning those responsible for organizing recent student rallies, focusing on financial backing and the underlying purpose of demonstrations where supporters allegedly chanted slogans in favor of Umar Khalid. According to PTI’s report published on July 30, authorities are examining the circumstances surrounding these gatherings.

During celebrations marking the departure of former education minister Dharmendra Pradhan from his position, police arrested two young individuals who were reportedly showing support for the imprisoned student activist. Khalid currently faces charges connected to violence that erupted in northeast Delhi during 2020.

NGO Secretary Faces Extensive Questioning

Panaji police summoned Amreen Shaikh, who serves as secretary for the organizing NGO, on Wednesday to address concerns raised about the events. The investigating officer reportedly posed approximately 240 inquiries to Shaikh, with particular emphasis on how the protests were financed and what objectives organizers hoped to accomplish by elevating Khalid’s cause.

“The investigating officer asked Shaikh questions such as: ‘Who was leading the protest? Are you a member of any WhatsApp, Telegram, or Signal group related to the protest? How did you travel to the venue? What did you intend to achieve through the protest? Are you associated with any political party, social organisation, or student organisation?'”

Both demonstrations took place in Mapusa and Panaji locations respectively. According to officials, the NGO Uzvaad coordinated both rallies, while a local organization called ‘Citizens of Mapusa’ submitted a formal complaint expressing concerns regarding placards that appeared to support Khalid.

Police Confirm Investigation Details

Superintendent of Police for North Goa, Harischandra Madkaikar, explained to PTI on Thursday that the probe began after receiving a complaint from a group. He clarified that the questions posed to organizers constituted standard investigative procedure. Following the interrogation session, the individuals involved were permitted to leave without further detention.

“The questions that were asked were basically part of the investigation,” he said, adding that after the interrogation, the organisers were allowed to go.