Rape case: Goa court refuses to stay framing of charges against Cong MLA

A local court Monday refused to stay the framing of charges against Congress MLA Atanasio

Monserratte, accused of raping a minor girl in 2016. District and Sessions Judge Sherin Paul dismissed

the application filed by Monserratte seeking to drop charges against him.

The Women's Police Station had, last year, filed a 250-page charge sheet in North Goa District Court against

Monserrate under section 376 (rape) of the Indian Penal Code and relevant sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

The MLA was also booked under the Information Technology Act for use of cell phone in the alleged crime.

Monserrate had moved the application last month seeking dropping of charges.

After the court order Monday, Monserratte claimed he was innocent and said he would move the High Court seeking an expeditious trial.

"I will move the High Court seeking to expedite trial in the case. I don't mind if the trial is held on a day-to-day

basis," he said. Monserrate won from Panaji Assembly constituency in a

bypoll held on May 19, the result of which was declared on May 23.