Central aid for witness safety sought

Chairman of the Special Investigation Team (SIT), RK Raghavan has expressed his concern over security of witnesses in cases filed in connection with the Sabarmati Express carnage and the ensuing riots.

Addressing the media on Tuesday, he said, “We have already written to the Central home ministry requesting additional forces for the protection of witnesses. An officer of the rank of superintendent of police will monitor the security measures of the witnesses. The SIT will also start a helpline for witnesses to register complaints in case they receive any threats.

The SIT has also contacted the superintendents of police in all districts concerned except for Ahmedabad. “The superintendents of police of concerned districts will be asked to assume the responsibility of managing the security of the court proceedings,” Raghavan said. Having met over the past two days, the SIT will decide its plan of action over the next few days.