Team Herald
MARGAO: Bailancho Ekvott (BE) welcomed the conviction and sentencing in the Danielle McLaughlin case. "The ends of justice have been met with Vikat Bhagat being convicted for the brutal rape, murder, and destruction of evidence, and sentenced to rigorous punishment and a fine," said BE President Auda Viegas on Wednesday.
"Although it took eight traumatic years for relief, Danielle McLaughlin’s mother and sister, who fought for justice, can now grieve for her. The pain of losing a loved one—especially to a cruel killer—can never go away, but the sentence will pave the way for healing."
The women’s rights organization particularly praised District Judge Kshama Joshi's "leading observations" about consent. "Intoxication is no excuse to rape a woman. If intoxicated, she is not fit to give consent," BE highlighted from the judgement. The organisation lauded the thorough investigation by the Goa police, the prosecution's efforts and Adv Vikram Varma, the McLaughlin family lawyer.