Body of Gujarati youth killed in Uganda brought home

Ahmedabad, Apr 15 (UNI) The body of Devang Raval, a Gujarati youth, who was killed in anti-India riots in Uganda, was brought here today.

Devang, a young salesman in Uganda was stoned to death on Thursday by violent mobs which attacked the properties owned by Asians. They were protesting against the bid by a local sugar company, SCOUL, which is part of the Indian-owned Mehta Group, for the Mabira Forest Reserve to expand its estate.

Rawal, who tried to flee the mob on a motorcycle, was intercepted, pulled down and stoned to death.

While waiting at the Airport for Devang's body, his father Shailesh Rawal, a retired mill worker, in a choked voice said his son was due to return home next month to get married.

He lamented that the Indian government did nothing to provide security to Indian workers in Uganda during the riots.

''Devang had been living in Uganda for two-and-half years and we wanted him to get married. Prepartations were on for his wedding.

However, we never thought he would never return,'' said Mr Rawal, tears welling in his eyes.

Devang's body reached Ahmedabad late this afternoon.

His family members received the news of Devang's death through his friends.

Devang's family members feel that the Indian government should have done more to ensure the safety and security of expatriate Indians.

The attack revived bitter memories of violent anti-India bashing by former Ugandan dictator Idi Amin, who expelled nearly 75,000 Asians in 1972.

UNI