Tribals record statements before Delhi District Judge

New Delhi, Feb 16 Six of the 12 missing tribals, who were produced by the Chattisgarh Government before the Supreme Court today recorded their statements before the District Judge in the national capital. The statements were recorded by District Judge G P Mittal and the entire proceedings relating to it were videographed as directed by the Supreme Court.

"All of them recorded their statements voluntarily," sources said on completion of about five-hour-long proceedings which started late in the evening in the courtroom of District Judge at the Tis Hazari Courts complex. Both the representatives of Chattisgarh government and the petitioners, who were present during the proceedings, expressed satisfaction over the recording of the statements.

The statements were put in sealed envelopes for production before the apex court tomorrow. The District Judge asked all the six to remain in the protection of Delhi police till tomorrow.

Soyam Rama, Kunjam Hidma, Madauri Hidma, Soyam Hulla, Muchaki Sukdi and Sodi Sambo recorded their statements in an in-camera proceeding. During the proceedings, interpreters and counsels representing the Centre, Chattisgarh Government and petitioners were present.

Rights activist Himanshu Kumar, who had filed the petition in the apex court, was also present.