Kasab gets copy of SC's death sentence verdict

Mumbai, Sept 11: Mumbai terror attack convict Mohammed Ajmal Amir Kasab, lodged in a high security jail here, has been given a certified copy of the last month's

verdict confirming

on him, while he remained silent on filing a mercy petition.

"Kasab was given a certified copy of his death sentence confirmation verdict three days ago on which he had signed. One copy was given to him and the other was sent to the Supreme Court," an official of Arthur Road Jail said.

Asked if the Pakistani gunman had been explained about options before him, including moving a mercy plea, the official replied, "Kasab was told about all procedures and rights he has as a convict, including moving a mercy petition before the President, but he did not react."

When the terrorist, lodged in bomb-proof "anda cell" (egg shaped cell), was first informed about the apex court upholding his death penalty, Kasab did not appear shocked, the official added.

On Aug 29, the Supreme Court confirmed the death penalty awarded to the LeT operative by the trial court and later upheld by the Bombay High Court. A Bench of Justices Aftab Alam and CK Prasad dismissed the 25-year-old's plea challenging his conviction and death sentence in the 26/11 case.

Kasab and nine other Pakistani terrorists had landed in south Mumbai on Nov 26, 2008 after travelling from Karachi by sea and had gone on a shooting spree at various landmarks, killing 166 people, including foreigners. While Kasab was captured alive, the other terrorists were killed by security forces. The SC also upheld the acquittal of two Indians who were alleged to be co-conspirators in the case.

PTI