The Supreme Court on Monday stayed the death sentence of Ajamal Kasab, the accused in 26/11 Mumbai attacks for the reason that his plea challenging the capital punishment has to be heard in detail as due process of law has to be followed. The petition was filed by Kasab through jail authorities. The apex court has appointed an amicus curie, Raju Ramachandran, to assist the case and agreed that the matter will be dealt expeditiously. The case will be heard regularly from January 31, 2012.

The Special anti-terror court had passed the death sentence of Kasab, on May 6 last year. The Bombay high court had upheld the trial court order in its February 21 decision. Kasab was the only 26/11 terrorist captured alive. Kasab’s death penalty was upheld on charges of criminal conspiracy, waging war against the nation, IPC section related to murder and under sections of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Arms Act, Explosives Act, Explosive Substances Act, Foreigners Act, Passport Act etc.

The Supreme Court suspended Kasab’s death sentence

Report by Lydia Chitra Jacob