This Article is From Dec 21, 2010

Australia to pay for accusing Indian doctor of terror

Australia to pay for accusing Indian doctor of terror
Sydney: Dr Mohamed Haneef, the Indian doctor wrongly accused of terrorism, will be awarded ''substantial'' compensation by the Australian government for his wrongful arrest in 2007.

Haneef returned to Australia last week to settle his compensation claim.

The 31-year-old doctor said the settlement would help him re-establish his career and reputation and stated that he would consider returning to the country.

The compensation claim had also sought damages for lost earnings, the interruption to his medical career, damage to his reputation and emotional stress.

The claim has been described as unique in Australian legal history by his lawyers.

Haneef, who was accompanied by his wife Firdous and three-year-old daughter Haniyah, said, "I'm very pleased and happy with the resolution of this matter...My wrongful arrest and detention in 2007 was a very traumatic experience and today's settlement is a chance to end that part of my life and move on with my family..."

The deal will end all court action over the matter, including against former Immigration Minister Kevin Andrews, who cancelled the Indian-born doctor's visa in 2007.

Dr Haneef's lawyer Rod Hodgson said the compensation - agreed to during mediation talks with the federal government - was "substantial" but didn't reveal a figure.


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