Monica case: Witnesses fail to appear

Bhopal, Nov 9 (UNI) Absence of listed witnesses today prevented a local court from recording statements today in a fake passports case involving underworld don Abu Salem and his girlfriend Monica Bedi.

Chief Judicial Magistrate Dinesh Kumar Dangi was informed that witness Chhotu was out of station while another Jahangir was deceased. Monica was not present in court. The bench directed the police to present evidence of Jahangir's demise.

The defence counsel submitted an application urging that the name 'Fauzia' not be attached to Monica's name. The prosecution's reply and arguments are expected to take place tomorrow. Of the total 32 witnesses, seven have deposed thus far.

On November 28, 2001, a case was registered at the Koh-i-Fiza Police Station against Salem, his wife Samira Jumani and Monica for having fake passports made at the regional passport office using the names Danish Baig, Rubina Baig and Fauzia Osman respectively.

UNI SD-AC SB RAI2124