1.
GV & SV Rowdy demonstrators (2 shots)
0.13

2.
SV Police on horse back
0.16

3.
GV Police dispersing demonstrators
0.27

4.
SV PAN Mrs. Gandhi arrives in car and enters building (2 shots)
0.40

5.
SV PAN Mrs. Gandhi walks along court corridor
0.50

6.
GV Demonstrators
0.56

7.
SV Mrs. Gandhi leaving court surrounded by people (3 shots)
1.15

8.
GV Crowds running after car (2 shots)
1.28



Initials BB/2300



Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: Riot police clashed with hundreds of anti-government demonstrators in New Delhi on Tuesday (18 April) as former Prime Minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi appeared in court.

SYNOPSIS: It was Mrs. Gandhi's third court appearance since her general election defeat more than a year ago. And outside the court there was plenty of evidence to support claims that her popularity is growing again. Several hundred supporters awaiting her arrival clashed with police as they chanted anti-government slogans and tried to break through the police cordon surrounding the court house.

Mrs. Gandhi was appearing before New Delhi's Chief Metropolitan magistrate on charges of refusing to give evidence before a government commission which is investigating alleged excesses during her 21-month emergency rule. During the hearing Mrs. Gandhi denied all the charges against her, and claimed the procedures adopted by the commission were illegal and contrary to principles of natural justice. She also said the Shah commission was being used to discredit her politically and therefore the refused to recognise its authority. At previous court appearances Mrs. Gandhi has shown similar reluctance to offer evidence and declared herself a victim of government controlled denigration. After the hearing she was swamped by supporters.

If convicted of the charges against her, Mrs. Gandhi could be imprisoned for six months and receive a heavy fine.