Mangaluru: Social activist Robert Rosario has alleged attempts to destroy evidence and intimidate victims and witnesses in the POCSO case registered against Father Cyprian Pinto, and urged the authorities to ensure their protection.
Addressing a press conference at the Press Club in Mangaluru, Rosario said the accused priest’s release on bail after a period in judicial custody had caused anxiety among the victims. He also expressed concern that the development had disappointed other individuals who had allegedly faced abuse and were preparing to file complaints.
Complaint against three individuals
Rosario alleged that while the accused was in judicial custody, some of his associates had threatened victims and witnesses and attempted to destroy evidence connected with the case.
He said a complaint had been lodged at Mangaluru South Police Station against three individuals, including Alwyn D’Souza Paneer and Ronald Rodrigues. The complaint reportedly alleges criminal conspiracy and attempts to prevent witnesses from testifying.
These allegations, he said, needed to be investigated by the police.
Raises concern over pressure on victims
The activist further alleged that a group of clergy members was attempting to influence public opinion against the victims through psychological manipulation.
Expressing concern over the alleged misuse of religious beliefs and prayer, Rosario said he had brought the matter to the attention of the Bishop of Mangaluru through a letter.
He maintained that victims and witnesses should be able to participate in the legal process without fear, pressure or intimidation.
Questions consideration of victim’s statement
Rosario said a boy who is a victim in the case had recorded a statement before a Magistrate’s court on October 28 under Section 183 of the CrPC.
According to him, the statement also referred to alleged threats against other witnesses.
He questioned whether the statement had been taken into consideration during the bail proceedings and called for attention to be given to the concerns raised by the victim.
Calls for protection of victims and witnesses
Rosario said that even when legislation provides strong safeguards, justice could be undermined if those provisions were not properly implemented.
He stressed that the legal system should function independently and should not be influenced by religious institutions or other forms of pressure.
He urged the state government and law enforcement agencies to take appropriate action in accordance with the law and ensure adequate protection for victims and witnesses.
The allegations raised at the press conference underline the importance of safeguarding those involved in the proceedings and allowing the case to be dealt with through the due process of law.