The 19th February 2008 horrendous attack on the Panaji Police Station was a very serious crime against the State. It was a travesty that a lawmaker led the attack against the law enforcement authorities. That now the CBI is intentionally bungling the Prosecution of the case to save and shield Babush Monserrate the main accused who is now the Revenue Minister comes as no surprise.
On 22nd December last year the High Court directed that the trial commence and be expedited as there was prima facie evidence against the accused. This direction came after the case was conveniently in cold storage for seven long years contrary to a Supreme Court order that any stay granted by the High Court expires in six months and that unless extension is granted the trial must go ahead.
The accused in high profile cases try to delay the trial by hook or crook, as evidence is washed away as witnesses die and also giving enough time for key documents to go missing as has possibly happened in this case. Now with the CBI daring to play truant to sabotage a water tight well investigated case, it would have to be seen if the Court is helpless and throws in the towel.
Over the last decade we have not seen the CBI, Enforcement Directorate and the Income Tax authorities act against a single BJP leader. It is no secret that joining the saffron party is a route to be safely insulated from all crimes. It is indeed an elevation from Sinner to Saint. God Save Our Nation.
