SC paves way for release of 87 Godhra accused

New Delhi, Feb 22 (UNI) The Supreme Court today paved the way for release on bail of 87 accused belonging to a minority community, who have been in jail in connection with Godhra train burning incident, when it directed that these accused can seek bail from this court.

A bench comprising Justices B P Singh and H S Bedi in its order said POTA Review Committee (PRC) had given a report that no prima-facie case is made out against them. They have been in jail for over five years, despite the favourable report of the PRC.

The court, however, refused to stay the trial of six accused in 2004 Mumbai train blasts case.

The court while dismissing the petition of six accused in the Mumbai train blats case said let the trial go on. ''If you are aggrieved by the trail court judgement you can come to this court in appeal.'' The court also said in case of the six petitioners there is no favourable report of the PRC so their case is on a different footing then those of the Gujarat cases.

The court also referred to a larger bench the amended section 60 for examination and to decide the issue whether Parliament can drop the case, congnisance of which has already been taken by the court as different High courts have conflicting views on the issue.

UNI