Panaji: A Sessions Court has acquitted Goa Minister and former St Cruz MLA Babush Monserrate in the 2016 rape case, bringing an end to a legal battle that spanned nearly a decade.
The case dates back to 2016, when the complainant alleged that her mother had sold her to Monserrate. She had further claimed that she was drugged and raped by him. Following the allegations, a detailed chargesheet running into nearly 250 pages was filed, with the prosecution examining around 40 witnesses during the course of the trial.
Minister Babush Monserrate was present in court when the judgment was pronounced.
After the acquittal, Monserrate gave his first reaction, stating that he always had full faith in the judiciary. “After a 10-year-long battle, I know how each day I have suffered. I thank my family and friends who stood by me throughout,” he said.
In its observations, the Sessions Court noted that the complainant had retracted her earlier allegations during the trial. As per the court records, the complainant stated that she had fabricated the story while staying at Apna Ghar and wanted to leave the facility.
The court was informed that the initial allegations were conveyed to a counsellor, following which the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) was approached and the case was registered. However, during the investigation and trial, the complainant told the court that her earlier statements were false.
After considering the testimonies of witnesses and the evidence placed on record, the Sessions Court delivered its verdict, acquitting Babush Monserrate of all charges in the case.
