In jail, R.K. Sharma tense but optimistic

Tue, Mar 18 01:55 AM

TENSION BEFORE the day of the verdict was evident but that did not stop R.K. Sharma, an accused in the Shivani Bhatnagar murder case, from indulging in his favourite pastime on Monday. Sources in Tihar Jail said while he has been eating less and praying more in the past few days, Sharma did play some table tennis in the jail on the day.

Sharma, a senior IPS officer, is accused of getting Shivani Bhatnagar killed in January 1999. "His appetite has reduced.

He has not been eating properly for a week now," said a source in Tihar's Jail No-1, where Sharma is currently lodged. Interestingly, Sharma had visited Tihar Jail as the Inspector-General (Prisons) of Haryana before his arrest.

He had reportedly refused to have food at the jail then because he was in a hurry - A common belief at Tihar Jail has if anyone refuses food prepared in the jail, the person has to repent. Sharma has also been praying a lot more in the past few days, said sources.

"He is very religious. But he has been spending more time reading religious books lately.

The number of books has also increased," said the source. Sharma, who lives with other undertrials in ward no.

1, often interacts with his inmates. He is hopeful that the verdict would go in his favour.

"He is optimistic but the tension on his face is quite evident," said the source. Sharma, who has served as the officer on special duty in the Prime Minister's Officer, surrendered before an Ambala court in September 2002.

He was shifted to TiharTihar Jail soon after. Sharma is known to be good in sports, especially in table tennis.

He also plays carom with other inmates. "He participated in the recent annual games held inside the jail but his team could not win," said the source.

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