Bhanwari case: CBI records statements of witnesses

Jodhpur, Jan 23: The CBI continued to record the statements of the witnesses in the Bhanwari Devi case to plug all possible loopholes in its investigation that might emerge during trial of the case.

After having the statements of three witnesses on Friday, the probe agency on Tuesday got the statements of two more witnesses, Rajesh Phophalia and Ram Niwas Bishnoi, recorded in the court.

While Rajesh had produced various folk video albums featuring Bhanwari Devi, Ram Niwas Bishnoi is a cousin of Bishna Ram.

Prior to this, the agency had recorded statements from eight persons -- four of whom are under judicial custody. The four persons are Amarchand, Sahi Ram Bishnoi, Bishna Ram Bishnoi and Kailash Jakhar.

Statements were also taken from Farookh (driver of Bhanwari), Sharavan Singh, Pukh Raj Dudi and Shayam Lal Paliwal.

A CBI source said more statements will be recorded in the coming days.

These statements are being recorded under Section 164 of CrPC and will strengthen the prosecution's case, the official said.

On the other hand, CBI is also intensifying its efforts to nab four absconders -- Indra Bishnoi, Pukh Raj Bishnoi, Dinesh Bishnoi and Reshma Ram Bishnoi.

PTI