Ranjit Kumar takes charge as Modi's counsel

New Delhi, Dec 7: Supreme Court lawyer Ranjit Kumar today took the charge as Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi's counsel after K.T.S. Tulsi resigned in connection with the former"s remarks about the 2005 fake encounter of Sohrabuddin Sheikh.

Irked with Modi's comments, Tulsi said it would be difficult for him to continue defending the government in the case.

Tulsi also accused Modi of playing "ducks and drakes" with the rule of law and the Supreme Court by making remarks justifying the Sohrabuddin killing.

Earlier, Tulsi sought an apology from the Chief Minister for his improper statement.

At an election rally in Jamnagar District on December 4, Modi admitted that Sohrabuddin Sheikh's encounter did happen in Gujarat, saying the latter got what he deserved.

"Yes, Sohrabuddin's encounter happened in Gujarat, and if Sonia Gandhi (United Progressive Alliance Chairperson) wants she can hang me for this," said Modi.

Sohrabuddin Sheikh, was reportedly gunned down on November 26, 2005 after being branded a Lashkar-e-Toiba militant by the Gujarat Police, allegedly trying to hatch a conspiracy to kill Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi. The cops also allegedly killed Sohrabuddin's wife, Kausar Bi.

ANI>