The precedent set by this case will be crucial, for a spate of riot cases are due for fast-track trial all over Gujarat. These will unfold in the shadow of some serious political cut and thrust and an acute focus on the post-riots justice delivery in the state. In between the pious words, stinging recriminations and swirl of events much larger than him stands the lonely figure of the ordinary riot victim.
Pulled apart by conflicting pressures, the predicament of the riot victims, especially those listed as witnesses, is unenviable. The average Muslim believes the state machinery, including the police, is against the community. The prosecution lawyers are not keen to fight these cases. In the absence of any safety net whatsoever, the only option for those who filed complaints is to withdraw or be prepared to suffer. Like Zaheera, who chose the safety of her family over pursuing justice.
First Take 
"They Said They'll Kill Me" 
