Wednesday, February 23 2005 13:25 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Ahmedabad: The prime witness in the Best Bakery case, Zaheera Sheikh, today (Feb 23, 2005) failed to appear before the Godhra inquiry Commission, probing the Sabarmati Express train carnage and post-Godhra riots.

Zaheera, who was summoned by the Commission, consisting Justice (Retd) G T Nanavati and Justice (Retd) K G Shah, for cross-examination did not turn up and instead filed an application seeking an extension.

Zaheera filed the application through her advocate.

The Commission fixed March 21 as the next date for her to appear.

'Sadhvi' Meenakshi Devi, who deposed before the Commission yesterday (Feb 22, 2005) and was summoned today for cross-examination, also did not turn up and instead filed an application seeking adjournment.

The Commission scheduled March 19 as the date for her cross-examination.