Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: The Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) court in Panaji has discharged all accused persons in connection with a case stemming from the 2021 protest staged by anganwadi teachers outside the Chief Minister’s official residence.
The case had been registered by the police alleging that officers were intimidated during the demonstration, and a chargesheet was subsequently filed against several individuals.
However, in its order, the court observed that the prosecution failed to present independent corroborative evidence beyond statements made by the officials themselves.
The court further pointed out that no medical records were produced to substantiate claims that a police officer had sustained a bite injury during the incident, weakening the prosecution’s case.
The accused were defended by Aldona MLA Carlos Alvares Ferreira, who appeared as senior counsel and presented arguments on their behalf.
With the discharge order, the court has effectively closed a matter that had remained pending for almost five years.
The case originated from the protest by anganwadi teachers, who had taken to the streets demanding improved service conditions and enhanced benefits.
The court concluded that there were insufficient grounds to proceed with the trial, leading to the dismissal of all charges.
