Bhopal gas victims wait for additional compensation

The survivors of the Bhopal gas tragedy Thursday expressed the hope that the additional monetary compensation promised them by the chemicals and fertilizers ministry would be disbursed on time.

Five women survivors and their supporters began an indefinite hunger strike Nov 10 at Jantar Mantar in Delhi demanding an additional compensation of Rs.1 lakh for the victims and correcting the numbers of those killed and the extent of injuries in the curative petition filed in the Supreme Court by the central government.

The agitation ended Nov 14 after the assurance by Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister Ananth Kumar.

In a press conference organised here, the five organizations of the survivors claimed victory and said: "We are hopeful of speedy implementation of the decisions taken at the meeting with the minister."

The five women survivors were also present at the press conference and said they would fast again if the need arises.