The family of the late Danielle McLaughlin say they are ‘devastated and heartbroken’ after the man on trial for her rape and murder in India was granted interim bail to attend his sister’s wedding.
Vikat Bhagat will be allowed to leave jail on the morning of 24th February to attend the celebration under police escort, according to local media.
Bhagat stands accused of the rape and murder of Buncran woman Danielle, who was aged 28 at the time, in Goa on March 14, 2017.
He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
In 2022, Bhagat was also granted interim bail following the death of his father.
Danielle’s family say they are terrified Danielle won’t get justice and live in fear that Bhagat could abscond.
“Today feels like the day we found out she died all over again,” said a statement from the family.
“We know he is able to walk free this weekend for a wedding while we sit at home panicking that he will disappear or hurt again.
“He gets to celebrate his freedom and his sister’s wedding while we grieve the loss of Danielle and possibly the justice she deserves.
“If he disappears will Danielle ever get justice? We just want this trial to end and will it ever if he absconds? We are truly devastated and heartbroken with this news.”
The length of the high court trial in Goa has been branded as ‘outrageous’ by Sinn Féin Deputy Padraig Mac Lochlainn, who this week called on the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tanaiste Micheal Martin to report on government engagements with the Indian government on the court proceedings.
