Justice K. Sampath, who heads the Commission of Inquiry appointed by the government to probe the Paramakudi firing on September 11, said here on Wednesday that he would hold an impartial inquiry into the incident, which claimed the lives of six Dalits.
Speaking to The Hindu here, Mr. Justice Sampath said the commission would discharge its duties and responsibilities to bring out the truth. “I have an open mind. I don't act on assumption or perception,” said the retired Madras High Court judge.
Stating that he had visited the spot at Paramakudi and the Immanuel Sekaran Memorial, Mr. Sampath said he had met the family members and relatives of those killed in three villages, including Veerambal and Sadayaneri. He could not visit other three villages.
He sought the cooperation of the people and said that this would enable him to probe the matter in detail and understand their views and grievances.
Asked about his opinion about the police firing, Mr. Sampath said he had not formed any opinion on it. He heard the views of all sides, particularly those affected. The police also expressed their views. It was only a preliminary visit and the formal recording of statements would be made in due course.
The commission had gathered views from all sides on what happened that day. It was not possible to come to any conclusion or opinion at this stage.
Asked how the panel would continue its proceedings in the backdrop of opposition among the affected people, Mr. Sampath hoped that the situation would improve. They would cooperate with the commission.
Later, Mr. Sampath enquired with V. Arun Roy, Collector, Ravikumar, Deputy Inspector General of Police, Mahesh Kumar, Superintendent of Police, and others for the second day on Wednesday.
Published - September 29, 2011 01:30 am IST
