NSG commandos can depose on video: HC

Among the suggested guidelines submitted by Additional Solicitor General Darius Khambatta,one was that Sharma’s evidence be limited to whether or not he killed any terrorist at Oberoi Hotel,and that no questions be allowed on the NSG’s anti-terror techniques,weapons,communications or training. Another suggestion was that the evidence of Prakash and Jakhad be restricted to the production and seizure of material at the Colaba police station and that this be recorded by way of affidavit. The Centre also wanted the commandos’ photos and addresses kept confidential. If the special judge summons more commandos,the Centre wanted permission for the special public prosecutor to approach the High Court.

Khambatta said the guidelines have been accepted more or less,except for the suggestion on deposition by affidavit.

Summons to MEA JT sec
The 26/11 trial court has summoned Manpreet Vohra,joint secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs,on November 17,to depose on the Pakistan Government’s acceptance of the fact that accused Fahim Ansari had procured a genuine Pakistani passport using forged documents.

The prosecution had sought the summons to confirm that the passport seized from Ansari was genuine. The Uttar Pradesh anti-terrorism squad had seized the passport,issued in the name of Hamad Hassan,when they had arrested him in February 2008. Ansari is facing trial for his alleged involvement in 26/11; he is charged with providing the LeT with Mumbai maps that were later used by the attackers.

4 amphibious vehicles launched
A year after 26/11,the Mumbai Police on Friday launched four ‘Sealeg’ amphibious vehicles to tighten the security along the coastline. Flagging off the vehicles,Mumbai Police Commissioner D Sivanandan said,”Our aim is to have 50 such vehicles in the near future to secure our coastline.” He said that vehicles can accommodate 4-6 police personnel armed with automatic weapons. Joint Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Himanshu Roy said,”Ever since the terror attacks,there has been special emphasis on coastal security and keeping this in mind,the city police acquired four Sealegs Amphibious Marine Crafts which can be used on land as well as sea. These vehicles provide flexibility to carry out operations.”