Monica case: Shiraz becomes govt witness

Bhopal, Nov 27 (UNI) A local court hearing a fake passports case, in which underworld don Abu Salem and his starlet girlfriend Monica Bedi are among the accused, today approved accused Shiraz's conversion into a government witness even as court work remained almost paralysed across Madhya Pradesh as lawyers resorted to a strike in protest against a court fees hike effected by the state government.

Judicial Magistrate Dinesh Kumar Dangi rejected the submission of Monica's Counsel P C Bedi. Last Saturday, the bench reserved its judgement after conclusion of arguments. Mr Bedi submitted an application, under Section 306 of the Criminal Procedure Code, urging the court not to convert Shiraz.

However, recording of witnesses' statements could not take place owing to the strike. Monica was not brought to the court today.

Witnesses will depose tomorrow.

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.

On October 12 this year, Monica was conveyed here from Hyderabad -- where she has already been convicted in another case. The bench directed that Salem also be brought before it by December 15.

UNI AG-AC PK BD1938