Date:06/05/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/05/06/stories/2007050613610900.htm

National

Pereira case: judge resigns

Special Correspondent

MUMBAI: In a surprise development, Additional Sessions Judge of Mumbai Ajit Mishra, who had faced criticism from the Bombay High Court for handing mild punishment to businessman Alistair Pereira, has resigned.

Mr. Mishra cited no reason, in his resignation letter, for quitting the Bench, High Court sources said on Saturday. Pereira was accused of killing seven persons and injuring eight others at Carter Road in suburban Bandra on November 12 last in a hit-and-run driving accident.

Mr. Mishra, who had presided over a fast- track court, had sentenced him to six months' jail and ordered him to deposit Rs.5 lakh as compensation to victims.