Crucial Day for Gujarat: Godhra verdict today

Ahmedabad, Feb 22: After a long wait of nine years, the Godhra train burning verdict will be pronounced today (Tuesday, Feb 22) by a special court. It is believed to be a crucial day for the entire nation, especially for Gujarat. The judgment will finally clarify the doubts which were unanswered so far.

Since Feb 27, 2002, several questions have been raised including - whether the train was burnt or whether it was an accident. It is alleged that 59 persons, mainly kar sewaks, were burnt to death after a mob set fire to the S-6 coach of the Sabarmati Express near Godhra railway station.

Communal riots broke out across the state following this, which claimed the lives of over 1,000 people.

The names of 134 people had been registered as accused, of which 16 are absconding, 13 were released for the lack of evidence, 15 out on bail and 80 of the accused in jail.

Security has been beefed up in the entire state. Prohibitory orders banning assembly of four or more persons have been issued in sensitives districts like Godhra, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Bharuch and Anand.

Special restrictions have been issued for the local as well as for the national media. Government has asked media not to broadcast any footage of the 2002 riots or of any disturbances, after the judgment is passed.

OneIndia News
(With inputs from PTI)