Muslim intellectuals welcome Imrana decision

Lucknow, Oct 19 (UNI) Muslim intellectuals and scholars have welcomed the decision of the Muzaffarnagar court awarding 10 years' rigourous imprisonment to Ali Mohammed, the father-in-law of Imrana who raped her.

All-India Muslim Women's Personal Law Board president Shaista Amber said here that Imrana, despite being illiterate, showed the courage which an educated woman would not have shown. ''She is a courageous woman and the court order is a recognition of her tireless efforts to fight against injustice,'' she said.

Babri Masjid Action Committee (BMAC) convener and senior lawyer Zafaryab Jilani said the court should have granted more compensation to Imrana to continue with her life. ''Under Islamic laws, the punishment is more severe...but the courts can still help her get more compensation,'' he added.

Out of Rs 10,000 fine imposed on Ali Mohammed, Rs 8,000 would be provided to Imrana.

District and Sessions judge R D Nimesh this evening pronounced the judgement in a crowded courtroom in the presence of Ali Mohammed.

Besides sentencing the accused to 10 years' RI, the judge also imposed a fine of Rs 10,000 on him. If he fails to pay the penalty, his jail term would be extended by another six months.

UNI NAB MB VD BST2003