7/11 blast victims ill-treated: Somaiya

Mumbai, Oct 11 (UNI) Former BJP MP Kirit Somaiya today alleged victims of the 7/11 train blasts were being subjected to humiliation instead of being offered a ''healing touch''.

''It is sad that the sufferers have to beg for medical treatment, for their rights, and compensation from the government,'' Mr Somaiya told reporters here today.

Out of the 187 people who died in the blasts, the railway has offered 'D' grade jobs to only 28 of their kin till now, Mr Somaiya alleged.

The Central and State governments, and the railways are dithering in providing financial support, medical treatment, and other facilities, he alleged.

He said that 1077 people were affected by the blasts and their medical expenses will require at least Rs 20 crore. But, the railway has disbursed only Rs 2.47 crore while the State Government, despite assurances from the Chief Minister, has not contributed anything towards the medical treatment, he alleged.

Mr Somaiya alleged that 347 people were affected by the blast in Thane district but only 146 have received assistance so far.

Three of the blast victims are still in coma and they include Parag Sawant at Hinduja Hospital, Amit Singh at Jaslok Hospital and B Sriram at Lilavati Hospital, he said.

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