Team Goemkarponn
MERCES: The Special Court at Merces on Wednesday partially heard arguments on the bail application filed by Zenito Cardozo, the prime accused in the attempted murder of social activist Rama Kankonkar, before adjourning the matter to Friday.
The proceedings unfolded as Panaji Police sought additional time to verify Kankonkar’s caste certificate, stating that the verification is necessary before they can complete the investigation.
The request has added a new dimension to a case that has already drawn widespread public attention.
Cardozo, whom police describe as a repeat offender, is one of eight men arrested in connection with the assault. He moved his bail plea on November 18, a day after the chargesheet was filed. Earlier, the court had placed him and two others in judicial custody, extending their remand by fourteen days on October 31.
The assault took place earlier this month in Merces during what police say was a dispute linked to local issues. The incident quickly escalated into one of the most discussed cases in Goa, partly due to Kankonkar’s long involvement in civic activism and Cardozo’s criminal history.
Investigators have strongly opposed bail, arguing that the charges are serious and that releasing the accused at this stage may influence witnesses or hamper the probe into what they believe could be a wider conspiracy. The defence, however, has argued that the allegations are exaggerated and that the accused have cooperated throughout the investigation.
The bail hearing will continue on Friday, when the court is expected to hear the remaining arguments before taking a decision.
