Woman journalist attacked by Gujarat riots convict during interview

January 21, 2016

Ahmedabad, Jan 21: A convict in a Gujarat riots case, out on parole, allegedly assaulted a journalist in Ahmedabad on Wednesday evening when she met him for an interview.

Revati Laul, who is writing a book on the convicts in the 2002 Naroda Patiya massacre case, alleged that she was punched and slapped by Suresh Chhara when she asked him some questions during an interview at his house in Naroda area of Ahmedabad.

She claims that she managed to escape after Suresh Chhara's son and some neighbours intervened.

"I visited him at his house and I politely asked him if he wanted to share information about himself, his past, family and he, without provocation, started slapping me. He kept on punching me and banged my head to the wall. I somehow managed to flee from the spot," Ms Laul said.

Ms Laul was treated at a government hospital and she later lodged a complaint with the Vejalpur police station.

A former NDTV journalist, Revati Laul has been living in Ahmedabad for over a year, working on her book.

Suresh Chhara was convicted to 31 years in prison in 2013 for his involvement in the Naroda Patiya massacre - one of the bloodiest episodes in the 2002 Gujarat riots - in which around 100 people were killed.

He was released on parole by a local court last week, reportedly to trace his teenage daughter who has been missing since the last few months.

Chhara's former wife had alleged last month that he tried to rape her when he was released on parole few months ago, following which his parole was cancelled.

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once a criminal always a criminal

What can you expect from a convicted criminal.....he was jailed for 31 years and got released with 2 years....what a joke and shame for our legal system....

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SMR Public School’s ‘EXCELLENTIA’ highlights academic excellence and holistic growth

News Network

December 16,2025

Melkar (Bantwal): The 9th Annual Day celebration of SMR Public School, titled “EXCELLENTIA”, was held on December 15 with great enthusiasm and dignity, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey towards academic excellence and holistic development.

The programme was inaugurated by Dr. U. T. Iftikar Ali. The chief guests were Dr. Akhtar Hussain, Mr. P. Moosabba Beary, Mr. Zakaria Jokattre, and Dr. T. M. Abdul Rahuf—whose inspiring addresses motivated the students and appreciated the school’s contributions to education.

Mr. Abdul Nasir, Mr. Ibrahim Gadiyar, Mr. Razak Golthamajal, Mr. Sali Koya, Mr. Arshad Hussain, Mr. Ismail Balanoor, Mr. Feroz Bawa, Mr. Sahul Hameed, Mr. Abubakkar, Mr. Hameed K. Mani, Mr. Abdul Majeed (Principal, Melkar Women’s College), and Mr. Abdul Lathief (Former Principal, Melkar Women’s College) were the guests of honour.

The Annual Report was presented by the Headmistress, Ms. Fathimathul Zaheera, highlighting the school’s achievements and progress during the academic year. The Presidential Address was delivered by the Chairman of SMR Public School, Dr. Haji S. M. Rasheed, who emphasised the vital role of education in shaping students’ futures and stressed the importance of discipline, dedication, and consistent effort in achieving 100 per cent academic results.

Secretary of SMR Public School, Mr. Rifath Ahmed, and PTA President, Mr. Sandeep Kumar, were also present on the occasion.

The Annual Day celebration showcased the collective efforts of students and teachers and reaffirmed the school’s commitment to quality education and all-round development. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, parents, and well-wishers for their support. The 9th Annual Day—EXCELLENTIA—was a memorable and successful event, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

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