Emmanuel's Samuel Thomas released from jail

Kota, May 2 (UNI) Emmanuel Mission International (EMI) chairman, Dr Samuel Thomas, became a free man today on his release from jail after spending more than a month in judicial custody.

Dr Thomas was arrested from Noida near Delhi on March 16 over his role in the publishing and distribution of the controversial book 'Haqeeqat' from the EMI premises. The book makes derogatory references about Hindu deities.

Court cases were lodged against the author of the book M J Mathew, translator Denis Nathaniel and EMI founder and Samuel's father, Dr M A Thomas and some others at the Bhimganjmandi and Udyog Nagar police stations.

The Rajasthan High Court yesterday granted interim bail to Dr Thomas for three months.

Dr S Thomas's counsel, Mr Akram said the High Court's bail order was presented in Upper Judicial Magistrate and Additional Civil Magistrate's court where his cases are being heard.

Now only translator Nathaneil is in judicial custody while Supreme Court has already granted anticipatory bail to Dr M A Thomas.

The police have, however, not been able to trace author M J Mathew.

UNI XC RRT MA ND2340