Goa, 27 July 2026: A man identified as Mohammad Danish was detained by Goa Police after he allegedly raised slogans and displayed placards reading “Free Umar Khalid,” “Free Sharjeel Imam,” and “Free Bhima Koregaon 16” during a public gathering at Azad Maidan in Panaji.
According to police, Danish was taken into custody after he was unable to produce any valid identity proof. Videos circulating on social media show a tense confrontation between protesters and police officers, with bystanders questioning the legal grounds for the detention. The footage also captures police escorting Danish away as journalists and members of the public recorded the incident.
The demonstration featured handmade placards, including messages such as “Free Umar Khalid” and “Thank You Cockroaches.” At one point, police and those present asked a masked participant to remove his face covering to verify his identity.
The incident has sparked a political controversy in Goa. BJP leader Siddharth Kunkolienkar released a video questioning the alleged connection between Danish and NGO Uzvad, particularly its member Amreen Shaikh. He called for a thorough police investigation into the matter, alleging the possibility of a larger conspiracy, and urged the NGO to clarify its position. He also asked the Congress and AAP to state whether they support or oppose the messages displayed on the placards.
Kunkolienkar further alleged that the student-led CJP protest was being “hijacked” by unwanted elements through the display of the “Free Umar Khalid” placards, claiming that the messages diverted attention from the original purpose of the gathering.
Responding to the controversy, AAP Goa President Valmiki Naik said he had no opinion on the placards. He stated that the event was organized by youth and was open to everyone, adding that since the matter is currently sub judice, he would refrain from commenting further.
Police have not announced any further charges, and the matter remains under investigation.
