‘I Am Being Framed,’ Claims Rape Accused MLA Monserratte

Atanasio Monserrate, a former education minister and unattached Congress MLA from Goa, has been booked for allegedly raping a minor girl. (Photo: IANS)

Expelled Congress legislator Atanasio Monserratte, who has been arrested on rape charges, today alleged that he was being framed in a fake case and said he would disclose the identity of those implicating him once he is out on bail.

While being taken from the court after his police custody was extended by another four days, Monserratte said:

There is someone who has framed me. I am not revealing his name right now but once I am (out) on bail, the first thing would be to expose him in public. I will talk... I will reveal everything. Come on to the battlefield and fight rather than stabbing me from the back.

Monserratte, who is a former minister, said:

There’s politics behind this and this has been cooking since long. But every dog has its day. Today it is my day, tomorrow it will be yours.

The St Cruz legislator, who has been arrested by the Crime Branch for buying and raping 16-year-old girl, claimed he is innocent and has always been telling truth to the investigating officer.

I don’t need to think twice before answering the investigating officer. I am telling the truth so I don’t need to think. If I was telling lies then I would have had to think twice.

<b>Atanasio Monserratte</b>

Two separate dates about the incident of rape are being discussed – March 6 and 8 –Monserratte said.

Both the days I was with people. On 6 March, there were Corporation of City of Panaji polls where my panel was contesting and on 8 March the results were out and we were joyous and celebrating.&nbsp;