Media restrained from telecasting video clippings of accused

Mumbai, Aug 20 (UNI) The Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS), probing the 7/11 serial train blasts, today appealed to media not to publish, display or telecast anything related to the accused, who have been charge-sheeted in the case.

The ATS circular said the MCOCA (Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act) judge Mridula Bhatkar, who is also presiding over the case had passed an order stating, ''Electronic or print media should not publish, display or telecast any audio-video recording or clipping or transcripts related to any of the accused involved in this case as well as any material that may lead to the disclosure of the identity of the witnesses.'' Special Public Prosecutor Raja Thakare had moved an application in the court following the telecast of video clippings of the 'narco' test of extradited underworld don Abu Salem by a TV channel recently.

Mr Thakare, in his application referring to the TV clippings, stated that such a disclosure in the 7/11 blast case may cause prejudice towards the accused and will also affect the safety of the witnesses.

UNI