Russian rape: Goa Tourism Minister irked by handling of case

Panaji, Dec 6 (PTI) Goa Home Ministry's act of
shuffling the Russian rape case between its two sections has
irked the coastal state's Tourism Minister Fransisco Pacheco,
who said it was a harassment to the victim.

"We cannot treat our tourists like this. We invite
them to visit our country and later harass them. This is
unfair," Goa Tourism Minister Fransisco Pacheco told PTI.
Pacheco said he saw no logic in handing over the case
from Colva police to Crime Branch, few hours after FIR was
filed.
A 25-year-old Russian girl was allegedly raped by John
Fernandes, a 34-year-old high profile politician based in
South Goa. The girl was raped on December 1 midnight in John's
car after her drink was allegedly spiked by the accused.
The Minister said Goa police department's act of
taking the issue flippantly will affect state's image amongst
other countries.
"It's wrong to shield an accused person," he said.
The dignity of the victim should be protected and she
should be given justice at any cost, he added.
Colva police station initially had registered attempt
to rape case in this connection, which was later handed over
to Crime Branch on December 4.
Crime Branch officials took fresh statement from the
victim and registered it as rape while sending her for medical
examination. (More) PTI RPS
ANU


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