The Goa Sessions Court is expected to pronounce its verdict on Tarun Tejpal’s anticipatory bail petition shortly. The court this afternoon adjourned the hearing, which had resumed in Panaji in the morning, and said it will decide on the plea after 4:30 PM today.

Public Prosecutor Saresh Lotlikar argued that prima facie a case is established against Tejpal and so the police want his custodial interrogation.

He noted that the victim has been consistent in her statements. Lotlikar said the CCTV footage of the hotel in Goa where the incident occurred early this month gives enough hints confirming the allegation of rape. The public prosecutor also argued that Tejpal was not available for Goa Police and appeared only after getting interim relief from court.

Tejpal’s lawyer Geeta Luthra argued that Tejpal is ready to stay in Goa till the time it is required by the investigating agency. She ruled out the possibility of Tejpal fleeing the country. Wrapping up her arguments, Luthra said false allegation of rape can bring distress to the accused and cause equal damage to him as to the complainant.

Agency reports say Tejpal has arrived at the Crime Branch office.