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A historic verdict: R.R. Patil

Special Correspondent

MUMBAI: Describing the verdict in the Khairlanji case as historic, Deputy Chief Minister R.R. Patil on Wednesday expressed satisfaction with the CBI investigation and the speedy trial.

Talking to journalists, he said the Khairlanji incident was a blot on a progressive state like Maharashtra and the verdict sent a signal that such atrocities on scheduled castes would not be tolerated here.

Mr. Patil said the case was decided in record time and the government had appointed a special court for the purpose. People from all political parties should be happy with the verdict, he said. He said the State would approach experts for an opinion on the three acquittals. Mr. Patil also spoke to Bhaiyyalal Bhotmange who told him he was satisfied with the verdict.

The CBI can be asked to examine why the charges under the Atrocities Act could not be proved and also the charges of outraging the modesty of the two women. The government was also keen on reviewing the entire case once the judgment copies were made available and then decide what course of action should be taken, he said.

Last Saturday the Bhandara court took strong exception to the media coverage of the conviction and in response, the police curbed the media on Wednesday by issuing orders to television channels not to broadcast reactions to the sentencing.

Mr. Patil said Ujjwal Nikam, the special public prosecutor apologised for the inconvenience caused to the judge who felt under pressure from the criticism by media and activists. If people had a grouse they could approach the High Court, he added.

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