Vijay’s wife sues DPP for early trial

She is claiming "unreasonable delay" by the DPP in indicting her for the murder of her husband’s second wife, Dr Chandra Naraynsingh, after her committal eight months ago.

Her challenge to the DPP is expected to be heard this week before a San Fernando High Court judge.

Prof Naraynsingh was also charged with his former wife’s murder, but was freed at the same preliminary inquiry eight months ago.

However, his present wife, Maraj-Naraynsingh, and businessman Elton Ramasir, were committed to stand trial for the murder at the San Fernando Magistrates’ Court by Deputy Chief Magistrate Mark Wellington on March 14, 2005.

In her application for judicial review over the DPP’s alleged failure to act quickly in indicting her, Maraj-Naraynsingh is claiming that she "has done all that is possible in the circumstances to prompt the DPP into action, but to no avail."

Her husband, Prof Naraynsingh, has also filed an affidavit in support of his incarcerated wife, also claiming that the refusal of the DPP to file the indictment has caused "grave and serious prejudice."

Dr Chandra Naraynsingh was shot dead outside the Langmore Health Foundation at Palmyra Village, near San Fernando, on June 29, 1994. Since her committal for trial, Maraj-Naraynsingh has been incarcerated at the Golden Grove Women’s Prison, Arouca.

Her application for judicial review was filed yesterday in the Sub-registry of the San Fernando High Court by attorney Joan Furlonge, while attorney Anand Ramlogan is expected to argue her case.

Among the reliefs Maraj-Naraynsingh is seeking is an order of mandamus directing the DPP to prepare and file the indictment in the High Court. Maraj-Naraynsingh is also seeking a declaration that the DPP is required, by law, to prepare and file an indictment in the case of all non-bailable criminal offences within four months of the order of committal, or when the type-written copies of proceedings from a preliminary inquiry become available.

She is also seeking a declaration that the DPP’s delay in preparing and filing the indictment is illegal, irrational and unreasonable. She is contending that she has been treated unfairly, contrary to the principles of natural justice and Section 20 of the Judicial Review Act. She is also claiming that, as a result of the DPP’s action or inaction, her constitutional rights have been violated.