Jessica Lal's sister Sabrina Lal broke down when her friend told her on phone that the Delhi high court had pronounced Manu Sharma guilty of Jessica's murder.
Talking to rediff.com at her residence in DLF Phase One in Gurgoan, Sabrina said she could not muster enough courage to go to the court and hear the judgment.
"Honestly, I was scared a bit. What if it went the other way? In any case I knew that I would break down whether at home or in the court," she said as television journalist vied with each other to record her reactions.
"I went to Jessica's grave with my friend to pay her homage," she said.
She was satisfied that finally the judgment came her way and justice was done to Jessica.
The lower court had acquitted Manu Sharma and eight others for want of credible evidence.
Her business partner was quick to send her an SMS that said 'Done' when the court pronounced Manu guilty. Soon it was followed by a telephone call with more details.
"The high court found enough evidence to convict Manu Sharma, Vikas Yadav and Tony Gill. I am sure even if they go to the Supreme court, the apex court would do justice to Jessica," she said in response to a question whether she expected the same kind of judgment if the three convicted persons move the highest court.
She also thanked senior advocate Gopal Subramanium for presenting the case well before the high court bench comprising Justice R S Sodhi and Justice P K Bhasin.
PTI adds:
"It's a vindication for all of us," said Sabrina.
Emotionally overwhelmed, Sabrina, said, "It is a very emotional day for me." Having lost both her parents during the course of the family's seven-and-a-half-year-long fight for justice, she said she missed her mother and father.
"We miss mom and dad. It is a very good day for the family," said Sabrina, who has been at the forefront of the campaign for justice for Jessica. "There is a feeling of victory and vindication," she said.
She said it has been a long fight, "...but the end result has been amazing." Terming it a "vindication for all of us," Sabrina said finally truth has prevailed.
Asked what her message would be for Neelam Katara, who has been fighting a lone battle to bring the alleged murderers of her son Nitish to book, she said, "Never give up hope. Keep fighting."
Sabrina, along with other supporters of Jessica, took out candlelight vigils, building up public opinion for speedy justice in the case. Sharma shot at Jessica at the now closed down Tamarind Court restaurant in the capital after she refused to serve him liquor.
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