'Verdict a big deterrent'

NEW DELHI: Monday brought to an end the agonising wait for justice by friends and family of Priyadarshini Mattoo. It gave hope to other families which have been fighting for justice against the rich and mighty.
Describing the last 10 years as a period of "anguish and pain", Priyadarshini's father Chaman Lal Mattoo said, "Let us join others who are in distress and pain, like in Jessica Lall case, Nitish Katara case and other cases which are unnoticed and unheard."
The punishment, felt Jessica's sister Sabrina Lall, who has been doing the rounds of courts for over seven years, will be a deterrent for those who thought they could get away with anything."I am very happy for the Mattoo family. The judiciary has sent a very strong message." "I am more hopeful and waiting for the conviction of the culprit (for the murder of Jessica). Every family involved in such cases seeks vindication. I want the country to accept and know who the man behind my sister's murder is."
"The nature of the punishment should be weighed against the crime. It should deter people from even thinking about committing such crimes," she said. "I am now hopeful that justice will be meted out in Jessica's case as well."
Nitish's Katara's mother, Neelam Katara, said she felt relieved. "I fully empathise with the Mattoo family because I know what it is for parents whose fight for justice stretches on and on. It is delayed but, nonetheless, very good news."