the goan I network
MARGAO
The infamous Velim Church attack case suffered a major setback and left the prosecution red-faced after a scene of offence Panch witness told the Trial court on Saturday that he had never acted as a panch witness in the case and that his signature was obtained by the police when he had visited the Cuncolim police station in connection with an accident.
Sensing trouble, the Assistant Public prosecutor sought permission to cross examine the panch witness Pandhari Goankar, a resident of Balli, which was granted by the Court, but the witness stood his ground and reiterated that he did not act as a Panch witness and had signed the Panchanama at the Cuncolim police station.
During his examination, Pandhari Gaonkar stated on oath “I have not acted as a Panch witness. Around five years back, I had met with an accident and my signature was taken at the Cuncolim police station on some documents. I do not know anything about this case”.
When cross examined by Adv Pritam Moraes appearing for Fr Romano Gonsalves, the Panch witness said he works in a paddy field and does not know to read and write English. “Chandrakant (another witness) is my neighbour. I visit the police station if I have some work. When I met with an accident, I had gone to the police station only in connection with the accident. I do not remember whether Chandrakant had accompanied me
PANDHARI GAONKAR ON OATH
I have not acted as a Panch witness... I do not know anything about this case
Contents of papers on which my signatures were obtained were not read to me and I was informed that they are in connection with the accident
It is not true to suggest that I had signed the panchanama at the spot
It is not true to suggest that I have been won over by the accused and hence I am deposing falsely
