Panaji, Goa: Two store owners in North Goa found themselves in police custody after LED signboards at their establishments displayed pro-Pakistan slogans. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday evening, sparked outrage among locals and prompted swift action from the Goa Police.
The shops in question are located in the popular beach areas of Baga and Arpora. The LED signboards, which are typically used for advertising, flashed the words "Pakistan Zindabad," a slogan expressing support for Pakistan. The display was noticed by several marketgoers who filmed the screens and shared the videos on social media, calling for police intervention.
According to police officials, nine individuals connected to the two shops have been detained. Four were apprehended by the Calangute police, and five by the Anjuna police. The shops, identified as Revive Hair Cutting Salon in Baga and Whiskey Pedia bar in Arpora, operate independently. However, the pro-Pakistan slogans were displayed simultaneously on both their signboards.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed that the police took immediate action, noting that the boards were displayed without the necessary permissions. The police have disconnected the LED boards and registered a case under section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (endangering sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India) and relevant sections of the Information Technology Act.
The incident is currently under investigation, with authorities exploring the possibility of external interference or hacking. Police officials stated that technical experts are examining whether the displays were manipulated remotely. Preliminary information suggests that the LED systems might have been accessed through external sources.
The owners of the shops have reportedly told the police that their LED boards were hacked and that they were unaware of how the message appeared. Local residents and panchayat members questioned the shop owners about the display.
The incident has triggered discussions about digital safety and responsibility in public signage. BJP leader Senthil Kumar P commented on X, urging the police and NIA to closely monitor such activities.
The situation in Baga and Arpora is currently under control, with investigations ongoing to determine the exact cause of the incident, whether it was a cyber intrusion, operational error, or a deliberate act.
