Sasikala's 'back-breaking' FERA trial scheduled for May 4

After demanding for an English tutor in jail, Sasikala now demands a video conference for the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA) trial. Lodged in the Parapana Agrahara Prison, Bengaluru, since February 15, Sasikala is now complaining of severe back pain when the matter of her presence in the court came up. Her counsel on Thursday informed the Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (Economic Offence-I) that she was not in a position to travel in a police van from Bengaluru and return. Thus, she should be allowed to appear before the court through video conference.

However, public prosecutor Dhandapani opposed to the proposal vehemently saying that her presence was essential, given the fact that the case had reached a critical point where she has to be present physically to the charges levied on her and sign. 

Meanwhile, Sasikala’s counsel is yet to submit the medical report about her health condition. The judge has scheduled his decision on the matter of video conference to May 4. He has also directed Bhaskaran to appear on the very day for framing charges against him.

Charges have to be framed against Bhaskaran and the now defunct JJtv. A total of five case have been registered against the trio by the ED in 1995 and 1996 for violating FERA of 1973. The Madras High Court, however, reversed the order last year discharging Sasikala and others from the case. Following this, the ACMM (EO-I) reopened the case and trial commenced. 

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