26/11 terror case to conclude on first anniversary of attacks: Nikam

MUMBAI: The prosecution is all set to wind up the 26/11 terror attack case in a special court here on November 26, coinciding with the first anniversary of the dastardly strikes that left 166 dead.

"We have examined 265 witnesses and about ten more are left...the case would be wrapped up by November 26, a year after the terror attacks", special public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam said.

The evidence of another 300 witnesses would be adduced by filing their affidavits in the court, Nikam said.

These witnesses would not be examined personally because they are like the ones who had carried bodies of victims to hospitals, relatives of victims who claimed the bodies, people who suffered damage to their properties and medical officers who treated the victims, the prosecutor said.

"The trial began on May 8 and in about six months we are ready to wind up the case", said Nikam.

Pakistani gunman Ajmal Kasab is facing the trial along with two Indians, Faheem Ansari and Sabauddin Ahmed. While Kasab faces charges of multiple murders, others are charged with conspiracy.

After prosecution closes its case, defence lawyers may exercise their right to examine their witnesses. Then the accused would give their statements to the court on what they have to say about the evidence adduced against them. Finally, the court would give verdict after hearing arguments.