Pune: The trial in the Nasrapur rape and murder case has entered a crucial stage, with 48 prosecution witnesses examined so far and the remaining prosecution evidence likely to conclude within a week, according to special public prosecutor Ajay Misar.Proceedings before the court of special judge (Pocso) S.R. Salunkhe on Wednesday continued with the accused being produced through video conference from jail while special public prosecutor Misar and legal aid defence counsel Himmatrao Suryawanshi appeared in the matter. Court records show that the cross-examination of prosecution witness (PW) No. 47 was completed and the case adjourned for further evidence.According to Misar, a total of 48 witnesses have been examined till date. He said the witnesses examined during the ongoing phase of the trial include e-Sakshya-related witnesses, a transcript panch witness, a scene recreation panch witness, a panch witness relating to seizure of DVR and CCTV footage, and a panch witness connected with the accused’s memorandum panchnama.The prosecutor said the case has reached an important stage and that the remaining prosecution witnesses are expected to be examined within the next five to six days.Meanwhile, on June 9, the special judge permitted the prosecution to lead affidavit evidence of witnesses who issued certificates under Section 63(4)(c) of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam. The court observed that the evidence of those witnesses was of a formal nature and could be led on affidavit under Section 332 of the BNSS, while preserving the defence’s right to cross-examine them, if required.
