Panaji:
Two days after a Russian tour operator alleged she was raped by Goan politician John Fernandes, the case has developed a twist.
Goa Police's Crime Branch has stepped in after reports that the victim was being forced to dilute her charges because her attacker was well connected. The Crime Branch has taken a fresh statement from the Russian woman and the accused will now be charged for rape, and not just attempt to rape.
Fernandes, who has stayed away from the media ever since the casecame up, cannot be arrested till Monday - when his bail plea will comeup for hearing.
Earlier, a Russian friend who was with the victim that night denied the charges.She has filed an affidavit with the police saying "no rape took place"and "John Fernandes dropped us home in his car. I was with her till shewas dropped home."
But the statement comes at a time when the 25-year-old victim hasalleged she is under pressure to dilute the case. The victim's medicalreport also showed bruises on her body. She also says that "the policetold her not to continue with the case since John is a powerfulpolitician."
In Goa on a business visa, the victim had known John for a year. He wasalso acquainted with her friend, which is why they accepted a lift fromhim on Wednesday night.
Better known as a manufacturer of speed boats, John Fernandes contestedthe last assembly elections against NCP candidate and current TourismMinister Mickey Pachecho. He lost by a few hundred votes. Many of hissupporters feel the current charges against him are politicallymotivated.
Goa receives a large number of Russian tourists each year. As it facespeak tourist season, the state will have to act quickly to reassure itsforeign visitors.