Supreme Court grants anticipatory bail to Goa restaurateur accused of rape
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A Vacation Bench of the Supreme Court led by Justice Ashok Bhushan on Monday granted anticipatory bail to Goa-based restaurateur Jude Lobo in a grievance filed by a Delhi lady, accusing him of rape.
The Bench sat on an pressing foundation on Holi to hear Mr. Lobo’s case for defense towards arrest after the Delhi High Court refused the Calangute-based Souza Lobo restaurant proprietor any reduction.
“It is a perfect example of a cock-and-bull story. An FIR was lodged by the woman in December 2020, and the rape allegations are of 2009. She wanted to host a party at my restaurant and I refused. She improved her case…,” senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, for Mr. Lobo, stated.
Mr. Rohatgi submitted earlier than the Bench — additionally comprising Justice S. Abdul Nazeer — that the lady claimed she had met Mr. Lobo in 2009.
“There are general allegations later in her statement. There is a mention of a Joseph, who is an alleged friend of Lobo. Millions of Josephs in Goa. She then says she cannot get justice in Goa, and hence Delhi,” the senior lawyer argued.
Mr. Rohatgi stated the allegations have been levelled towards the restaurateur as a result of he had refused to host a celebration at his restaurant due to COVID-19 restrictions.
“We are satisfied that the petitioner has a case of anticipatory bail. If he is arrested, he shall be released on a personal bond of ₹10,000. The petitioner is allowed to implead the complainant as Respondent No 2. Let it be done today [March 29] itself. Issue notice,” the courtroom ordered.
Mr. Rohatgi apologised to the Bench for bothering them on the day of Holi pageant.
“It is part of our duty,” Justice Bhushan responded.
The courtroom will reopen on April 5 after the Holi break.
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