Terror mastermind's 'friend' speaks up

Abdul Sami, a seventh semester student of architecture, is currently cooling his heels behind bars after being booked under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act of 1967. His crime -- cops allege -- being seen with Abdul Subhan, the alleged mastermind behind Operation BAD and also chief of the so-called Indian Mujahideen.

Karnataka's Special Investigation Team says Sami is a member of the outlawed Students Islamic Movement of India. He is also accused of handling the outfit's finances in northern Karnataka.

Special Correspondent Vicky Nanjappa caught up with Abdul Sami in Bangalore while he was being produced before the court, which later remanded him to judicial custody. Sami seemed calm and confident as he spoke to rediff.com.

Do you know Abdul Subhan, aka Tauqueer? What is your association with them?

Yes, I have met Subhan. It was in the residence of Adnan (a SIMI activist arrested along with Safdar Nagori in Madhya Pradesh). I have known Adnan for a couple of years now and it was in his house that I met Subhan. However, I was not aware that they were into such activities.

Are you a member of SIMI?

Yes, I am. I became a member when I doing my pre-university course.

What do you have to say about SIMI's link to terrorism?

Listen, there is no proof that SIMI is into terrorism. However, if there is proof, then SIMI is not doing the right thing.

What do you have to say about the alleged terror activities carried out by your associates? What about the recent blasts and what are your feelings on so many persons losing their lives as a result of this madness?

I condemn terror in all forms. Terror activities end up killing innocent people and hence I feel terror activities should not be carried out.

You say you are innocent. If you are acquitted by the court then what do you plan on doing next?

I want to study and lead a normal life if I am released. I realise that I am in this situation because of my association and as I earlier said, I had no clue regarding their activities. My entire family is being blamed and I do feel sad about it. I just want to lead a normal life once I get out of this mess.