Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 12: Taking a cue from the neighbouring State, Jammu Kashmir Government is all set to initiate proceedings for adequate compensation to the family of Chamel Singh, who was beaten to death in Pakistan’s Kot Lakhpat jail under the circumstances similar to that of Sarabjit Singh of Punjab.
The matter is going to be discussed in detail at highest level with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in next two-three days and if required approval of the State Cabinet will also be taken for State help to the family of Chamel Singh on Punjab pattern, Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand told the Excelsior.
Besides, the Central Government is also being approached with a formal proposal through proper channel for adequate compensation to Chamel’s family and I am taking up this issue with Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde again, the Deputy Chief Minister added.
Pertinent to mention that Chamel Singh of border village Pargwal in Akhnoor tehsil of Jammu district was tortured to death in Pakistan’s Kot Lakhpat jail on January 15 this year. He was arrested on charges of espionage in 2008 and sentenced to five years imprisonment by a Pak court. Death of Chamel Singh had rocked the recently concluded State Assembly session as Pakistan authorities delayed handing over body of the deceased to India for more than a month.
However, the demand for `adequate’ compensation and State recognition to deceased Chamel Singh surfaced from Jammu region after another Indian prisoner Sarabjit Singh from neighbouring Punjab died under similar circumstances in same Kot Lakhpat Jail of Pakistan on May 1. The Punjab Government accorded status of martyr to Sarabjit Singh and also announced Rs one crore as ex-gratia to family of the deceased. In addition, the Union Government also announced a compensation of Rs 25 lakh to the bereaved family.
Since then, a demand for State recognition to deceased Chamel Singh and `adequate compensation’ to his family on the pattern of Punjab Government’s treatment to Sarabjit Singh’s case was being raised from Jammu region though there was no response from Kashmir based parties, including main opposition PDP and ruling National Conference.
By pursuing Chamel Singh’s case for a logical conclusion, Congress is also eying on its vote bank in Jammu region, which is considered backbone of the party, sources explained.
Meanwhile, family members of Chamel Singh today called on Tara Chand at his official residence, here today. Kamlesh Devi, widow of Chamel Singh and son Dar Singh reiterated their demand for State recognition to deceased Chamel Singh and adequate compensation to the family on the pattern of Punjab Government’s treatment to Sarabjit Singh.
The Deputy Chief Minister shared grief of the family and said that efforts had been initiated to adequately address their genuine demands like compensation.
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