State govt fails to file reply on Somaiya's petition

Mumbai, July 25 (UNI) The Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has adjourned hearing on a petition filed by former BJP MP Kirit Somaiya regarding compensation and medical help to victims of last year's July 11 train blasts, till August 10, following the state government's failure to file a reply.

The state government has neither filed a reply nor was any state government representative present before the Commission following which SHRC acting chairman C L Thool adjourned the hearing till August 10.

On last occasion, Mr Thool had directed Principal Secretary (Rehabilitation) to file a reply and action taken report by today.

Mr Somaiya, while talking to reporters here today, said that on July 4 this year, he had met Rehabilitation Minister Dr Patangrao Kadam who had assured every help to the blast victims.

Despite the assurance, the government has not even bothered to file a reply on the petition, he noted.

Mr Somaiya said that two persons, injured in the 7/11 train blasts, are still admitted in the hospital in an unconscious condition. Their family members are being made to run from pillar to post to receive financial help for the medical treatment.

Revealing the identities of these two persons, Mr Somiaya said Parag Sawant has been admitted in the P D Hinduja Hospital, while Amit Singh is in Jaslok Hospital since July 11 last year.

Mr Somaiya said there are over 100 other blast victims who are in need of financial assistance for medicines and surgeries.

On last occasion Mr Thool had directed Principal Secretary Rehabilitation to file reply and action taken report before the commission by today.

UNI