Shirgao Incident Should Mark a Turning Point for Festival Safety: Prabhav Naik
Margao:
Youth leader and Madganvcho Awaaz representative Prabhav Naik has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident at the Lairai Jatra in Shirgao, which claimed multiple lives and left several injured. Extending his condolences to the bereaved families, Naik called for accountability and urgent systemic reforms to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Friday, Naik said, “This incident has not only shocked Goa but the entire nation. It is not enough to mourn; we must ask difficult questions and demand answers.”
Naik questioned the preparedness of the authorities, especially in light of the festival being granted State Festival status by the Government of Goa earlier this year. “This was the first Lairai Jatra celebrated under the elevated status. What special arrangements were made to ensure public safety? What role did the Disaster Management Authority play?” he asked.
Highlighting the large number of devotees who attend the annual event and the nature of rituals such as Homkhan, which take place at night, Naik raised concerns about the adequacy of emergency services and infrastructure at the venue.
He demanded the government publicly disclose its safety action plan and provide clarity on the following:
The number of times the Disaster Management Authority convened in preparation for the festival;
The deployment levels of ambulances, fire brigades, and water tankers;
Safety protocols followed by the Electricity Department in issuing temporary power connections;
Measures taken to ensure proper insulation and safety of electrical wiring;
Guidelines followed in granting permissions for amusement rides and other temporary installations;
Structural verifications conducted by relevant authorities.
Naik asserted that these questions merit immediate and transparent answers. “This tragedy must serve as a wake-up call. The government must act swiftly to plug all safety gaps,” he said.
Calling for accountability, Naik added that those responsible for lapses—whether due to negligence or oversight—must face strict action. “Let this not become just another incident that fades from public memory. Let it become a turning point in ensuring public safety at all major festivals in Goa,” he concluded.
