26/11 Case: Kasab Sentenced to Death
Amir Ajmal Kasab has been sentenced to death on four counts and to life imprisonment on five counts, said media reports.
Kasab, who was found guilty of murdering seven people, helping murder 159 others and waging war against India, broke down in court as verdict was announced, said reports.
While announcing the judgement, special judge ML Tahaliyani said that the brutality of 26/11 could not be described through words, reports said.
“This man has lost the right of getting humanitarian benefit,” he was quoted as saying, adding that there was no option but the death penalty.
As tears rolled down Kasab’s face after the sentence was announced, the judge asked that he be given a glass of water.
However, when he was asked whether he wanted to say something, Kasab quietly shook his head to say ‘no’, reports said.
It may be mentioned that the death penalty will not be implemented immediately, as Kasab can appeal to high courts and also file a mercy petition for the consideration of President Pratibha Patil.
He was pronounced guilty on Monday and the prosecution and defence ended their arguments on quantum of sentence on Tuesday.
While the prosecution argued for the death sentence, Kasab’s lawyer appealed for leniency on the grounds that he’s just 22 years old.
(Based on internet reports)
