In a remarkable intervention by Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, he indicated at a press conference held yesterday with Chairperson of the National Commission for Women, Dr Girija Vyas that Shiney Ahuja’s rape case would be fast-tracked through the courts. He also confirmed that the victim would be helped through the rehabilitation process. “She comes from a poor background,” he stated, “and so the State will provide her with financial and any other kind of assistance she may require.”
Dr Vyas explained that a two-step process was required for securing a conviction: “The NCW has seen the victim’s medical reports, which prove that rape has been committed. However, we cannot proclaim the accused guilty until his guilt is proved by DNA reports, which are awaited.”
Shiney has been remanded in custody until July 2nd to give the police time to complete their investigations. He has two films on the floor at the moment – Accident and Hitman. Only three days work on Accident remains and PNC Vice-President Ramkamal Mukherjee said yesterday, “We have completed 95 percent. We will shoot Soha Ali Khan’s portion and then finish Shiney’s portion once he is released.”
Sudhir Mishra, director of Hitman was, however, less optimistic. “I guess it will have to wait,” he said.
