Italy yet to transfer 10 cr compensation; SC says it knows how ministries work

NEW DELHI: The Centre on Monday informed the Supreme Court that it is awaiting the receipt of Rs 10 crore compensation for the kin of two Indian fishermen killed by Italian Marines off the Kerala coast in February 2012.

A bench headed by Chief Justice S.A. Bobde, at the outset, asked Centre's advocate Rajat Nair, whether the amount has been deposited? Nair responded, "We are awaiting the receipt of money." The bench told Centre's counsel "you were in a hurry last time, but we also know how ministries work."

The Centre' counsel submitted before the top court that as soon as the money is received, it will deposit the compensation with the apex court as per the April 9 direction.

The bench, also comprising Justices A.S. Bopanna and V. Ramasubramanian said it will hear the matter next week. Nair submitted before the bench that Italy has initiated the transfer of money. The top court was hearing Centre's application for closure of case against the two Italian marines — Salvatore Girone and MassimilianoLatorre. "We will keep it next week," said the top court concluding the hearing. (IANS)

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