Haneef's family elated, eager to see him back

Bangalore, July 27 (UNI) Family members of Indian Doctor Mohammed Haneef, against whom the Australian authorities today dropped charges of terrorism were elated and rejoiced on hearing the news.

Dr Haneef's wife Firdous Ashriya told mediapersons before her residence in BTM Layout,''I am excited and happy on hearing the information about the charges against Haneef being dropped.'' She thanked the Indian Government for its support, especially the External Affairs Ministry for playing a crucial role in ensuring freedom for her husband.

She also had a word of praise for the media both in India and Australia and also the public in Australia for their relentless efforts in opposing the charges against her husband.

''All I want now is my husband to come home on a regular visa.

He should not be deported,'' she said.

Twenty-seven-year-old Haneef had been charged with recklessly supporting terrorism by providing a relative in Britain with his mobile phone SIM card.

He had been in jail since July 2 as he was about to leave Australia for India.

UNI