PANJIM: The High Court of Bombay at Goa on Wednes day rejected the anticipatory bail application filed by disqualified Ar pora–Nagoa Sarpanch Ros han Redkar in connection with the Birch fire case. Opposing the plea, the prosecution submitted that Redkar had illegally issued a trade licence to Birch without verifying or obtaining mandatory documents. It was further argued that despite being aware that the es tablishment was functioning from an illegal structure, Redkar failed to initiate statutory action, including demolition pro ceedings. Seeking anticipatory bail, Redkar contended that once the panchayat became aware of the al leged illegality, it had is sued a demolition order, which was subsequently stayed by the competent authority. He claimed that the panchayat had consistently attempt ed to demolish the structure but was restrained due to the stay. The prosecution, however, questioned the panchayat’s conduct, arguing that even if demolition was stayed, there was no explanation for its failure to seal the establish ment, which was allegedly operating without a valid trade licence, occupancy certificate, and from an illegal struc ture. Following the High Court’s order, Advocate General Devidas Pangam said the State would move to secure Red kar’s arrest. “We are applying for a non-bailable warrant against him. We are also initiating the process for issuance of a public notice. All necessary steps will be taken to arrest him. The police are making efforts to secure his presence for interrogation,” Pangam told reporters. North Goa Superintendent of Police Harishchandra V Madkaikar said the police were currently unaware of Red kar’s whereabouts, prompting the issuance of a notice. Subsequently, Goa Police issued a look-out notice against Redkar. Earlier, Redkar’s anticipatory bail plea had been rejected by the Mapusa Additional Sessions Court as well. Despite this, Anjuna Police have so far been unable to arrest him.
HC rejects Redkar’s anticipatory bail plea
