THE GOAN NETWORK
PANAJI
The Additional Sessions Judge, North Goa, has cancelled the proclamation order issued in connection with a drug raid in February 2024 after the accused Sani Kumar cited mental health issues as the reason for his inability to attend the Court proceedings.
The man was arrested by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Goa for allegedly peddling over a kilo ganja.
The Court had issued a proclamation order and a non-bailable warrant against Kumar when he failed to appear for court proceedings. His last deposition was recorded on January 15, 2024.
In an affidavit submitted to the Court, Kumar claimed he has been suffering from mental health issues and depression, over the past few months, which required urgent medical treatment. He stated that due to his condition, he was not represented by his lawyer and was even unable to attend the proceedings. He also informed the Court that he is still undergoing treatment and is not mentally fit yet.
“Absence before this Court was not intentional but due to the above reasons,” Kumar said while urging the cancellation of the proclamation order. He assured the Court that he would be present or represented by his lawyer in all future hearings.
The Court accepted his plea and directed him to deposit a fresh surety of Rs 25,000 with two sureties of like amounts. He was also directed to pay Rs 5,000 to the NCB to meet the expenses of the publication undertaken while he was absconding.
