Relatives from Aum Shinrikyo’s victims demand the successor group of salary compensation

The relatives of the victims of the crimes committed by the cult of Aum Shinrikyo three decades ago in Japan are demanding that one of their successive groups pay compensation and dissolve itself.

On March 20, 1995, the members of the cult released toxic gas from the Sarin nerves within the packed subway cars in the peak hour in three lines in the center of Tokyo. Fourteen people died and some 6,300 others were injured.

Family members held a press conference at Japan National Press Club in Tokyo on Monday.

Takahashi Shizue, who lost her husband in the attack, spoke at the press conference. He was an official at a subway station.

She said she was relieved and happy when the diet in 2008 unanimously adopted a law on relief for the victims of Aum Shinrkyo’s crimes, since she had worked hard for it. But she pointed out that the law is just a milestone in the relief of the victims.

Takahashi also said that before the incident, she and her husband had talked about what they expected after retirement. He added that his life was ruined not only by the cult but also by the Successor Group.

Kariya Minoru, whose father died while the members of the cult kept him captive, said he is not satisfied that the group has not yet paid compensation even though he was ordered in court.

Kariya also said that he fears that the group is still recruiting members. He said he wants the group to dissolve after paying compensation. He added that if he continues not to do it, he will continue fighting him.