Panaji, Sep 30 (TOI): Members of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) cornered the chairperson of the Goa state commission for women, Vidhya Tanavade on Tuesday demanding to know why the commission was not taking initiatives in reaching out to victims of rape, abuse and sexual harassment in the Siolim minor rape case as well as other cases.

Tanavade admitted she had tried, but had not visited or sent any of the commission's members to check on the minor. She said the family had not approached the commission, saying its members go and visit victims who complain to the commission.

AAP members demanded the arrest of the accused alleging that the government was protecting the accused as he was granted anticipatory bail instead of being arrested. "After medical examination he should have been arrested. Instead, he was granted anticipatory bail and is moving freely," said woman rights activist, Adv Ashma Sayed, though not a member of AAP.

AAP's Valmiki Naik said the police were not serious in the case and also alleged political interference. "It is the duty of the commission to pay the minor a visit and instil confidence in her. No initiative has been taken by the commission," he stated.

AAP members have organised a candle light vigil in Colvale on Saturday evening to demand justice for the school girl. Tanavade, after being coaxed by AAP members to meet the victim's family, has consented to attend the public meeting.

In the sexual harassment case against journalist and television anchor Rupesh Samant, Tanavade said she received a letter from Goa union of journalists and will send a letter to the police to obtain more details about the case.