A police station is where people turn for protection and justice. But a case in Goa has raised questions about what happens when those entrusted with that responsibility face allegations of misconduct themselves.
A 16-year-old girl has accused a suspended Crime Branch inspector of sexual assault, leading to a police investigation and two arrests on 4 November.
What allegedly happened at the Crime Branch office? And why has another person also been arrested? The case has put the safeguards meant to protect minors under scrutiny.
What Happened?
According to reports, the minor had initially approached the Childline helpline with a grievance related to cybercrime. Her complaint was forwarded to Police Inspector Vikas Deykar, who was posted in the Cyber Crime division.
She first visited the Crime Branch office in Ribandar, accompanied by 37-year-old Rajani Palekar, to lodge the complaint. She was allegedly called to the office again by Deykar in connection with the same matter.
The girl alleged that Deykar sexually assaulted her during these two visits, on 25 July and 27 October 2026. She claimed that he asked her to remove her clothes and touched her inappropriately on both occasions.
Palekar has also been accused of facilitating the alleged offences. The minor subsequently approached the police with a complaint, following which a case was registered and an investigation began.
What Action Did The Police Take And What Charges Were Filed?
Old Goa Police suspended Deykar and directed him to report to the Goa Reserve Police at Altinho. Both accused initially joined the probe after receiving BNSS notices but were arrested on 4 November.
North Goa SP Rahul Gupta cited inconsistencies in their statements and concerns about witness influence and evidence tampering. CCTV footage reportedly showed Palekar accompanying the minor, while cameras inside Deykar's cabin appeared covered.
The accused face charges under BNS Sections 75, 127, 49, 61(2)(a) and 3(5), and POCSO Sections 10 and 12, covering sexual harassment, wrongful confinement, abetment, conspiracy, common intention and sexual offences against children.
Who Protects Children When They Approach The Police?
The case has also drawn the attention of the Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (GSCPCR).
The commission took suo motu cognisance of the allegations and sought copies of the complaint, FIR and investigation report from the authorities within three days.
It also stressed that the minor's identity and privacy must remain protected throughout the investigation.
The intervention brings another important aspect of the case into focus: protecting children who report abuse and ensuring that institutions responsible for their safety follow the law.
TL;DR | News At A Glance
What is the Goa sexual assault case about?
A 16-year-old girl accused suspended Crime Branch inspector Vikas Deykar of sexually assaulting her during two visits to the Crime Branch office in Ribandar.
Who has been arrested?
Goa Police arrested suspended inspector Vikas Deykar, 40, and Rajani Palekar, 37, on 4 November 2026.
What action did the police take?
Old Goa Police registered a case, suspended Deykar and arrested both accused after further questioning.
Which laws have been invoked?
The accused have been booked under Sections 75, 127, 49 and 61(2)(a), read with Section 3(5) of the BNS, and Sections 10 and 12 of the POCSO Act.
