MARGAO
The South Goa Sessions Court has granted anticipatory bail to tiatrist Alison de Curtorim, against whom the Goa police had registered a case following a complaint lodged by Cuncolim MLA Clafacio Dais for singing a Konkani song which highlighted current political issues.
Alison’s lawyer, Adv Antonio Clovis da Costa told the media that the Principal Sessions Judge has granted the anticipatory bail. He said the court has ordered the release of Alison upon furnishing a personal bond of Rs 20,000 with one identical surety in the like amount in the event of his arrest. Alison was further directed to report to the police if called for investigations.
Adv Clovis said it was indeed unfortunate that a case under section 295-A of the IPC was booked against Alison on the plea that the tiatrists has hurt the religious beliefs and faith of a particular class of people. “It is indeed surprising that the police machinery has been used to suppress the voice of the people. How can a song hurt the belief of a particular class of people has not been made out. It is a clear case of the police being used to suppress the voice of the people”, he said.
Adv Clovis further said Alison had moved the South Goa Sessions Court for anticipatory bail after two police jeeps came to his house and conducted a search
Alison said he is a political singer and no amount of pressure or attempt to suppress his voice will cow him down from highlighting issues. “The complainant was trying to stop me from singing the song, but I will continue signing the song”, he said, adding that he too is ready to go to the court if the complainant has plans to approach the court.
