Does Strauss-Kahn have an alibi?

The fate of the IMF chief’s legal battle will be totally altered if it is established conclusively that he had an alibi.

The question is how accurate are reports about the alibi while the high-profile French politician cools his heels in a notorious New York prison. French daily Le Figaro reported that Strauss-Kahn's lawyers have evidence to prove that he left the hotel much before the time the alleged sexual attack on a hotel maid took place.

The defense lawyers say the IMF chief left the hotel at 12.28, at least half an hour before the time of the alleged attack as per the police version. They argue that he was out having lunch with his daughter, who is a student at the Columbia University.

Though this alibi is more than enough to prove him innocent, there are conflicting reports about its accuracy. Another French daily has reported that according to the latest police version of the incident the attack took place closer to noon, not at 1 P.M. as reported initially. If this happens to be true, then it could prove that Strauss-Kahn checked out after the alleged incident took place.

The New York Times reported that the hotel key card might give clinical clues about the timing of Strauss-Kahn's check out. It can also trace the time the maid entered his suite for housekeeping.

In France, popular mood nearly swung in favor of the disgraced politician and the anti-US sentiment grew for the humiliating treatment meted out to Strauss-Kahn. Many said it was a case of lynching.

Meanwhile it emerged that one of his female aids said in 2009 that Strauss-Kahn was a sexual predator who, like all political animals, has trouble controlling himself.