The Goa Children's Court headed by South Goa District Judge A.D.Salkar on 31st December directed the Public Prosecutor Mrs. Pratima Vernekar to file her say on the application filed by Mr. Anthony Frois uncle of the minor girl allegedly molested by Ribandar Parish priest Fr. Newton Rodrigues seeking steps to ensure that the accused priest does not leave Goa.
The Court adjourned the matter to January 7th for orders on this application and the main criminal complaint filed by Mr. Frois against Fr. Newton Rodrigues. Arguing the matter on behalf of Mr. Frois it was submitted that the accused priest is likely to be moved out from Ribandar and being sent on a long-term assignment to a church in the United States of America. It was further argued that as the accused priest is likely to flee justice it was imperative that the Court exercises its powers to take cognizance of the offences committed and ensure the presence of the accused priest by restraining him from leaving Goa.
