Panaji: A Ponda court has acquitted truck driver Siddlingapp Godi of charges of causing death by rash and negligent driving in a 2021 hit-and-run case that claimed the life of a motorcycle rider at Borim. The court observed that the eyewitness was shaky and unreliable and cannot be taken into consideration, and that the prosecution failed to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
Case Background
According to the prosecution, in January 2021, near Baithkol, Borim, Godi drove the truck in a rash and negligent manner while proceeding from Kundaim towards Vasco and collided with a motorcycle. As a result, the motorcycle rider succumbed to his injuries on the spot. The accused driver then fled the accident scene without providing any medical attention or aid to the injured person and also failed to inform the police about the incident.
Court's Observations
The court noted that the sole eyewitness presented by the prosecution gave inconsistent statements and was deemed unreliable. The judge emphasized that the prosecution could not establish the guilt of the accused beyond reasonable doubt. Consequently, Godi was acquitted of all charges.
This verdict highlights the importance of credible witness testimony in hit-and-run cases. The court's decision underscores that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution, and any doubt must benefit the accused.
