Date:17/07/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/07/17/stories/2005071702280700.htm

National

Court rejects Ansal's plea

Staff Reporter

Uphaar fire case accused seeks exemption

NEW DELHI: A Delhi court on Saturday rejected an application by Sushil Ansal, prime accused in the Uphaar fire tragedy case and Chairman-cum-Managing-Director of Ansal Properties and Infrastructure Private Limited, seeking a permanent exemption from personal appearance.

Dismissing the application, the Additional Sessions Judge, Mamta Sehagal, said: "The exemption is sought by the applicant on the ground of business affairs. "I find this type of exemption cannot be granted at this stage.'' Ansal had urged the court to allow two lawyers nominated by him to appear on his behalf. As of now, he could only devote 15 days in a month to his business as the rest of the days were consumed by his obligation to appear before the court or scheduled holidays, the application said.