Indian Diamond dealer's death in Antwerp during raid sparks office closures.

Police in Belgium raided the home of diamond dealer Nikhil Manilal, a native of India around 7 a.m (Antwerp local time) on December 7, 2006. According to sources in Antwerp, Manilal 47, suffered a heart attack during the police raid while authorities offered no assistance.

Antwerp High Diamond Council (HRD) said Mr Manilal of Beltaj NV died of a heart attack at his home as police searched the residence and refused to provide immediate medical aid.

According to reports, HRD would hold meetings with its board of directors, including representatives of the Indian community to formulate a strong plea to the justice authorities.

The precious trade across Antwerp has protested against the evident brutality.

Belgium PM also expressed his diaspleasure with the circumstances and an enquiry has been ordered. Manilal�s funeral is scheduled at 3.30 from Hovenierstraat Antwerp Dec 08. Mr Sanjay Kothari, Chairman, Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council, GJEPC, Mumbai, commenting on the incident says, "Of course the authorities may carry out necessary investigations but they represent the state and society at large and we expect them to uphold human rights and to value human lives. As reported, by denying timely medical attention, they trampled on his rights as a human being in a civilised society an showed utter disregard for his life. We condemn this in stringest terms and demand a thorough investigation of the incident and appropriate judicial action."