Team Herald
PANJIM: Claiming that he was framed for political reasons, St Cruz MLA Atanasio Monserrate, who is currently in police custody, has said that he will float his own party prior to State Assembly elections.
“I am not out of politics, I will float my own party,” Monserrate told reporters while leaving the District Court on Thursday.
He also alleged that one person was involved in filing the “fake case” against him, and once he was out of jail, he would reveal that person’s name to the media.
“Someone has framed me. I am not revealing his name right now, but once I am out on bail, the first thing will be to expose him in public,” said Monserrate, adding, “I will talk. I will reveal everything to you all. (He should) come on the battlefield and fight, rather than stabbing me in the back.”
Regarding the investigation officer’s reason for seeking his extended custody, Monserrate said, “Since day one I have been telling the truth to the investigating officer. What else they want me to tell them?”
However, when asked by the court, Monserrate said he had no complaint against the police.
Talking to reporters, he reiterated that the police are doing their job and he had no complaints against them, hinting that somebody was commanding the investigation officer.
He also stated that two dates were being discussed – March 6 and 8 – in the case, and on both days he was in front of the public. He said, “On March 6, there were the Corporation of City of Panaji polls, where my panel was contesting, and on March 8, the results were out and we were celebrating.”
