Mr Ahamed says India will pursue the case of Dr Haneef

Bangalore, July 21 (UNI) Minister of State for External Affairs E Ahamed today said that India would pursue the case of Dr Mohammed Haneef detained in Australia in connection with failed Glasgow airport attack through legal and diplomatic means and there was no need to think about political initiatives.

The Centre had taken the issue very seriously and had extended all help to Dr Haneef and his family, he said.

"Yesterday MEA officer had met Dr Haneef in the detention centre and the Indian doctor was in good health". he said.

Dr Haneef said he was sad with a turn of events and the action taken by the Austrailian government, the Minister said.

Mr Ahamed said yesterday the Consular access had been granted to Dr Haneef for the second time.

On Australian Federal police seeking help from the Indian investigating agencies he said it would a become a legal matter.

"If they want to find out something about Dr Haneef they will have to come to India to ascertain the facts," he said.

"We will have to say to what extent we can ascertain the facts and will have to be carefull in this matter," he said.

Meanwhile Mr Imran Siddiqui, a cousin of Dr Haneef's wife Firdous Arshiya, left the city for Australia to act as a communicator between Dr Haneefs' family and his lawyer.

UNI