Indian forensic expert honored by NY community body

New York, Sep 10 (UNI) Noted forensic scientist Dr P Chandra Sekharan has been honoured by the New York Tamil Sangam for his significant work in his field and contribution to India at large.

Dr Sekharan was the principal lead investigator in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case and told the world that the former Prime Minister was killed by a human bomb. He based his finding on the available forensic evidences collected from the ghastly scene in Sriperumbur in Tamil Nadu, where Gandhi was addressing a meeting.

The scientist was awarded India's second highest civilian honour Padma Bhushan for his investigation that led to the identification of the assassins.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Sekharan said American forensic scientists and law enforcement authorities are now training the public to be vigilant and cooperative in preventing terrorist attacks. They had evolved a mantra, ''if you see something, say something'' and publicised it widely.

''Public participation is crucial in preventing terrorist attacks and this is in stark contrast to India where such cooperation is lacking,'' he said.

Several speakers praised Dr Sekharan for helping to enhance the image of Tamil Nadu to which he contributed immensely. Many seemingly unsolved cases in the southern state have successfully been untangled by the noted scientist.

Mr Albert Chelladurai, president of the Sangam, said Dr Sekharan's latest book 'The First Human Bomb' was released last month in India.

He said the US release function of the same would be held in the New York borough of Queens early next month.

''Professor Chandra Sekharan has delved deep into the study of forensic science. His scholarly publications, participation in numerous national and international conferences and seminars, varied accomplishments and distinctions and illustrious academic background mark him as a man who holds the centre stage in his chosen field not only in India but all over the world,'' the association chief said.

Dr Sekharan, who was invited for the annual conference of American College of Forensic Examiners in San Diego, California, earlier this month, came to New York specially to attend the felicitation function organised for him.

Mr Stanley Kalathara, an attorney and the Democratic Party candidate for Jackson Heights District 25 for New York City Council elections, and Luis Castro of New York City Council felicitated the scientist. Prakaash M Swami, secretary of the Sangam, welcomed the gathering, and Edgar Rosario, joint secretary of New York Tamil Sangam, proposed a vote of thanks.

UNI XC SLD KN1320