Sweets, congrat pour in as Kanimozhi and others gets bail

Kanimozhi's husband Aravindan looked a relieved man with a smile flashing across his face after the news came out that she has been given bail.

He was seated next to his 43-year-old wife and exchanged pleasantry with the other accused and supporters, including DMK Parliamentary Party leader T R Baalu, MP J Helan Davidson and others who rushed to the court to greet Kanimozhi.

"We all are very happy. Whole DMK is happy. I also talked to (party supremo) M Karunanidhi who is really very happy with the court's order," Baalu said.

The information about the HC bail order trickled into the courtroom at around 3.45 pm when the proceedings for the day were already over and it brought instant cheers on the faces of Kanimozhi and other accused.

The otherwise calm and composed Kanimozhi greeted every one with folded hands acknowledging their congratulations.

DMK workers distributed sweets outside the court room and one of them, who was seen holding a bouquet, said he would present it to Kanimozhi as soon as she is released from jail.

The family members of other accused, who were given bail, too welcomed the verdict.

"After a long time, we have received a good news. We are very happy with the order of the High Court," said one of the relatives of accused Asif Balwa who was also granted bail.

DMK leader Baalu, who was also there at the High Court during the pronouncement of the order, met Kanimozhi in the lock up.

"She is happy," Baalu said after the meeting.

"We expected it (grant of bail) because there was no objection by the CBI, and the Supreme Court had already given bail to five of them (accused)," he said.

Regarding the possibility of Kanimozhi attending the ongoing Parliament session, Baalu said, "She may attend the Parliament session. It depends on the judge also as she may take exemption (from the court's proceedings)."

Besides Kanimozhi, kin of Kalaignar TV MD Sharad Kumar,Bollywood filmmaker Karim Morani and Kusegaon Fruits and Vegetables Pvt Ltd directors Rajiv Aggarwal and Asif Balwa, who were granted bail, too rushed in to congratulate each other.

"I am shocked. You cannot imagine how happy I am," said an elated Zoa Morani, Bollywood actress and daughter of Karim Morani.

The accused would now furnish the bail bonds tomorrow as release warrants could not be issued by the Special Judge today due to procedural delay.