Not satisfied,need to change law,says Moily

Twenty-five years is too long a period. We were monitoring this case ever since I took over,as the Prime Minister felt that too long a time had elapsed. While it should be understood that the accused used each law and every statute to prolong the legal battle,with the Supreme Court having to intervene many times,the case shows that we need to have fast-track courts to deal with such cases where lives have been lost. We must draw lessons from the verdict and take corrective steps, he said.

Asked if the verdict could also make the government amend the law to ensure speedy trials,Moily said,There is certainly need to make changes. Whether it should be a standalone legislation or amendments to the Indian Penal Code is a question that will have to addressed after detailed discussions. But let me tell you,I am not satisfied with the law we have now.

Asked to comment on the claim by CBI investigation officer B R Lal (now retired) that he was under pressure from the Ministry of External Affairs not to pursue the case against Union Carbide chief Warren Anderson,Moily said,After retirement,some people say whatever they want. It is an irresponsible statement… people become martyrs by making such statements.

Meanwhile,former Chief Justice of India K G Balakrishnan,who took over as chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission today,also said,The verdict in the case has come too late.