Tuesday, January 11 2005 13:42 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Giridih (Jharkhand): : Union Coal Minister and JMM (Jharkhand Mukti Morcha) chief Sibu Soren, against whom charges were framed yesterday (Jan 10, 2005) in connection with decades old Pirtand murder case, said he would face trial.

"I respect the judiciary and I would face trial," he told reporters in Giridih. Asked whether he would quit his Ministry, he shot back saying "Why should I?"

The first additional district judge Manoranjan Kavi set March 21, 22 and 23 as the trial dates for the JMM chief.

He was charged with murder, attempt to murder, meddling with evidence, conspiracy and unlawful assembly under various sections of the IPC.

Soren, who appeared before the court around 12:30 hrs (IST), was asked by the judge to re-appear at 14:30 hrs (IST) when the charges would be framed.

The judge also turned down the Minister's counsel Prakash Sahay's request for more time.

Meanwhile, senior BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) leader Saryu Rai said that the party would make it a major issue in the ensuing elections.

"The people will not let Soren go scot-free. They will give their verdict during the February polls," he added.