Pak story of hijackers’ trial a big hoax
From Our own Correspondent JAMMU, MAY 20 Radio Pakistan’s report about the prosecution of two hijackers Hashim Qureshi and Ashra— has been described as a “hoax” on the part of the Pakistan Government to mislead the world that it has taken action against them. An Indian Friendship plane was hijacked in January last to Pakastan form Jammu and was later set on fire at Lahore airfield.
According to an eye-witness who has crossed over to this side of the case fire line. Pakistan authorities had removed the entire machinery including seats of hijacked plane and burnt it afterwards. Later, the hijackers were given a big reception that was organized on an official Level at Lahore, Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
An occupied Kashmir national who crossed over to this side said that, he had witnessed with his own eyes the Government-sponsored reception accorded to both hijackers at Muzaffarabad, headquarters of pak-occupied Kasmir, only three weeks ago. He said when the hijackers entered Muzaffarabad town in a Government vehicle, officials numbering about 200 were ordered to receive them at Dorail Bridge on Jehlum river from where they were taken to town in a procession piloted by brass band.
He said some Pakistani officers leading the procession were raising anti-Indian slogans describing the hijackers as “Marde Mujahid” (brave men). He further said that he had sen a fortnight back both of them moving like free men at Rawalpindi surrounded by groups of Pakistanis. He ridiculed at Pak radio propaganda about “prosecution” of hijackers who were being treated as Government guests.
Reference: Hindustan Standard 21.5.71