Date:06/11/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/11/06/stories/2006110612020100.htm

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Government reacts cautiously

Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI: The Government reacted cautiously to the verdict handed out to the former Iraqi President, Saddam Hussein, but suggested that New Delhi did not think it was the result of a "credible due process of law."

There was also a hint that the judgment might add to the problems faced by the Iraqi people.

Late on Sunday, External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee said in a statement that there was an automatic appeal process (against the verdict). He said: "Such life and death decisions require credible due process of law, which does not appear to be the victor's justice and is acceptable to the people of Iraq as well as the international community. ... We hope the verdict will not add to the sufferings of Iraq."