Panaji: Social activist Auda Viegas has appealed to the media and the public to exercise responsibility while reporting and sharing information related to the recent Curchorem case, particularly where minors are involved.
In a statement, Viegas stressed that the identity, dignity, and privacy of children must be protected at all times, irrespective of the nature of the incident. He cautioned against circulating photographs, videos, or any content that could directly or indirectly reveal the identity of minors, noting that such actions can have serious legal and psychological consequences.
Viegas emphasized that while the public has a right to stay informed, this must not come at the cost of violating the rights of children. He urged media organisations, social media users, and digital content creators to adhere to ethical journalism practices and comply with laws that prohibit the disclosure of a minor’s identity in sensitive cases.
Expressing concern over the rapid spread of unverified content on social media, Viegas said misinformation and speculative reporting can not only hinder ongoing investigations but also cause lasting harm to affected families. He called on citizens to refrain from forwarding or reposting content that involves minors or has not been verified by official sources.
The appeal comes amid widespread public attention surrounding the Curchorem case, with discussions continuing across various media platforms. Viegas urged everyone to allow investigating agencies to carry out their work without interference and to avoid drawing conclusions before the facts are officially established.
He further stated that responsible reporting is essential for maintaining public trust while safeguarding the rights of vulnerable individuals. According to Viegas, protecting children should remain a collective responsibility shared by the media, authorities, and the public alike.
As the investigation into the Curchorem case continues, authorities have also urged the public to rely only on verified information and avoid spreading rumours or content that could compromise the privacy and well-being of those involved.
