Daijiworld Media Network - Panjim

Panjim, Jan 22: The High Court of Bombay at Goa on Wednesday rejected the anticipatory bail application filed by disqualified Arpora–Nagoa Sarpanch Roshan Redkar in connection with the Birch fire case, dealing a major setback to the former panchayat head.

Opposing the plea, the prosecution submitted that Redkar had illegally issued a trade licence to Birch without verifying or obtaining mandatory documents. The State further argued that despite being aware that the establishment was functioning from an illegal structure, Redkar failed to initiate statutory action, including demolition proceedings.

Seeking anticipatory bail, Redkar contended that once the panchayat became aware of the alleged irregularities, it had issued a demolition order, which was subsequently stayed by the competent authority. He claimed that the panchayat had made repeated attempts to demolish the structure but was restrained due to the stay order.

However, the prosecution questioned the conduct of the panchayat, arguing that even if demolition was stayed, there was no justification for failing to seal the establishment, which was allegedly operating without a valid trade licence, occupancy certificate, and from an unauthorised structure.

Following the High Court’s order, Advocate General Devidas Pangam said the State would move swiftly to secure Redkar’s arrest.

“We are applying for a non-bailable warrant against him and are also initiating the process for issuing 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 Redkar’s whereabouts, prompting the issuance of a notice. Subsequently, Goa Police issued a lookout notice against Redkar.

Earlier, Redkar’s anticipatory bail plea had also been rejected by the Mapusa Additional Sessions Court. Despite this, Anjuna Police have so far been unable to arrest him, officials said.