(1.) Rule made returnable forthwith. Respondent no. 1, who appears in person, waives service. The learned Additional Public Prosecutor, waives service for the respondent nos. 2 and 3. Heard finally by consent of parties.
(2.) All these petitions arise out of order dated 09.12016 and 01.06.2017, passed by the learned Sessions Judge at Panaji. They involve common and connected questions of law and fact and as such, they are being disposed by this common judgment.
(3.) The brief facts necessary for the disposal of the petitions may be stated thus: