Swamy defends Nanavati Panel findings on Godhra violence

Chennai, Sep 26 (UNI) Defending the findings of the Nanavati Commission, which probed the Godhra violence in Gujarat, Janata Party president Subramanian Swamy today said it had performed its duty in a professional and legal manner.

Speaking to reporters here, Dr Swamy said the Commission's report ''is to be believed because its proceedings have been conducted professionally, legally and without haste.'' He also urged the Gujarat Government to launch criminal proceedings based on the findings of the Commission.

Assailing the U C Banerjee Committee appointed by the Centre to probe the violence, he claimed it conducted itself in an unprofessional manner.

Dr Swamy said the accused could defend themselves on the basis of the Banerjee Committee report and the courts could decide on the issue.

The Janata Party Chief also said Nalini, serving life term in the Rajiv Gandhi Assassination Case, had no right to seek premature release since the life imprisonment period was not stipulated.

He, however, asked the Tamil Nadu Government to go by the law on the issue.

Dr Swamy also came out in defence of the advisories sent by the Centre to Karnataka and Orissa Governments on ending attacks against Christians saying the Union Government had the right to send them when law and order was threatened by religious matters.

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