Dasmunsi ''surprised, shocked'' by Dutt's conviction

New Delhi, July 31 (UNI) Minister of Information and Broadcasting Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi today expressed ''deep shock and surprise'' over the conviction of film actor Sanjay Dutt in the 1993 Mumbai blasts case, saying he has suffered for ''no intentional fault of his.'' The Minister said Sanjay Dutt's ''personal conduct and behaviour was an example for the young generation.'' Mr Dasmunsi said he believed in the judiciary but felt that ''in a civil society time has come to gauge the parameters for an unintentional fault, for which Dutt had already suffered enough.'' His contribution and mass appeal to society through the film industry has been significant, he said.

''All efforts should be made to approach and appeal at the highest forum of judiciary to secure relief to him,'' said the Minister.

Dutt was sentenced to six-years' rigorous imprisonment under the Arms Act by the designated TADA court in Mumbai today.

The judge also imposed a fine of Rs 25,000 on Dutt, in lieu of which he will face an additional six-month imprisonment.

UNI