Japanese Guru Refuses to Enter Plea in Gas Attack
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TOKYO — Cult leader Shoko Asahara refused Wednesday to enter a plea to charges that he masterminded a nerve gas attack on Tokyo’s subways last year.
On the opening day of his long-awaited murder trial, the bearded cult leader sat fidgeting through a nearly six-hour recitation of thousands of names of those sickened or killed in the attack.
But he did make one short speech, reminiscent of mystical remarks he once delivered to disciples.
“I pity those who do not know the truth,” he told the four judges, who will render a verdict because there are no jury trials here. “I have no concern about things like lack of freedom, and pain.”
Under Japanese law, the proceedings will continue despite Asahara’s refusal to make a plea.
If convicted, Asahara, leader of the Aum Supreme Truth cult, could face death by hanging. The trial is expected to take years.
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