Dutt to spend brief 'free' period on his case

Actor Sanjay Dutt, who was released from Pune's Yerawada Jail after the Supreme Court granted him interim bail, said he would use this period of freedom to work on his case with his lawyers.`

"I intend spending this brief period while I'm on bail working on my case with my lawyers. I have full faith in the judicial system, I respect the law and will abide with it," Dutt, who was released Thursday, said in a press statement.

Dutt was sent to jail July 31 after the special TADA (Terrorist and Disruptive Activities) court sentenced him to six years rigorous imprisonment for illegal possession of arms in the 1993 Mumbai bombings. He was moved to Yerawada Jail Aug 2.

Dutt's release may be short-lived because he is supposed to surrender as soon as the TADA court hands over the copy of the judgement of his conviction.

The 48-year-old actor thanked all his supporters, including colleagues and fans, for standing by him in this time of crisis.

"In all humility, I thank all those who prayed for me during this period of my life. I thank all those who stood by my family and me and supported us so firmly. I also thank all my fans in Pune who stood outside the jail waiting for me."

He added that he regretted not meeting his fans in Pune.

"I'm sorry I could not meet you all but thank you for your prayers. I was overwhelmed by your love. I could hear you when I was inside the jail, and your love kept me strong."

Thanking the film fraternity he said: "I once again would like to thank the film industry, all my colleagues and friends for their support. I particularly thank my family for their unconditional and unending love and support."

His sister Priya Dutt echoed his sentiments: "On behalf of my family, we are thankful for this temporary relief that we have got. We are relieved to have our brother back home. We will always love and support him in any way we can.

"We thank everyone for their support and prayers. We have full faith in the judicial system and we are confident justice will be served," she added.

Dutt is currently staying at his Bandra residence with his family.

Indo-Asian News Service