High Court has ordered quashing of a 2023 rape and POCSO case registered at Porvorim, citing inadequate prosecution evidence and the impact of a prolonged trial on the survivor, who is now pursuing MBBS. The relief will take effect only after the accused, survivor and her mother jointly pay Rs 3 lakh in costs. Court noted that the survivor was about 17½ and the accused 21 at the time of the alleged incident. She and her mother sought closure voluntarily, with a court-appointed counsellor confirming her ability to make an informed decision.The State opposed the plea, arguing that a minor’s consent has no legal validity. The costs must be paid within one week to the Goa Bar Association for lawyers’ training and related expenses. Compliance will be considered on November 2.
