## Dapoli Resort Case Summary
A Khed court acquitted Maharashtra MLA Anil Parab and four others in a case related to the alleged illegal construction of a resort in Dapoli, Ratnagiri district. The case, filed by BJP leader Kirit Somaiya, alleged irregularities in the construction of the Sai Inn resort, including violations of Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules and environmental norms.
The court found insufficient evidence to prove the charges against Parab and the four co-accused – Sureshkumar Madhukar Parab, Purushottam Kulkarni, Pradeep Gharat, and Manjula Gharat. The prosecution failed to establish that the construction was illegal or that Parab was knowingly involved in any violations.
Specifically, the court noted discrepancies in the evidence presented by the prosecution regarding the resort’s location and its proximity to the coastline. The prosecution’s claim that the resort was within the CRZ zone was challenged by the defense, who presented evidence suggesting it was outside the restricted area.
The court also questioned the reliability of statements made by some witnesses, finding them inconsistent and lacking credibility. The investigation, initially conducted by the Dapoli police and later transferred to the state CID, was scrutinized for procedural lapses.
The case involved allegations of illegal land acquisition, unauthorized construction, and destruction of mangroves. Somaiya had claimed that Parab misused his position as a minister during the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government to facilitate the illegal construction.
The acquittal follows a previous Bombay High Court order directing the demolition of the resort’s illegal portions. However, the court clarified that the demolition order was separate from the criminal case against Parab and others. The acquitted individuals maintained their innocence throughout the proceedings, claiming the allegations were politically motivated. The court’s decision brings an end to the criminal proceedings in this matter, though the demolition of unauthorized structures remains pending.
