EU closely watching Italian envoy case, says India must respect Vienna Convention

NEW DELHI: Stating that the European Union (EU) is closely following the Italian envoy case that is currently under trial in Supreme Court an EU spokesperson told Times Now that India must respect Vienna Convention.

"We are hoping India and Italy can find a mutually acceptable, amicable solution," he said.

Earlier in the day Supreme Court ordered Italian ambassador Daniele Mancini not to leave India until further orders and also directed all authorities to ensure that he doesn't leave the country.

A bench, led by the Chief Justice Altamas Kabir, rejected an assurance by Mancini's lawyer Mukul Rohtagi that he would not leave the country. "We don't accept any such assurance from you. We have lost our trust in you."

"Some people are writing we are naive. But we don't expect the republic of Italy to behave like this. What do they think of our courts...judicial system?" the Chief Justice said, while directing the Indian authorities to ensure that he doesn't leave the country.

Rohatgi said that the ambassador had given all assurances on behalf of the Italian government and hence enjoyed diplomatic immunity for his actions. But the court disagreed.

"You have given a personal undertaking. Those who appear as petitioners, give undertaking cannot claim immunity," the CJI said.

He, however, did not issue any further directions, saying that the deadline for their return was still March 22 and listed the case for further hearing on April 2.

Attorney General G E Vahanvati drew the court's assurance to another note verbale issued by Italy on March 14, saying the ambassador's movements cannot be curbed under the Vienna convention and also ensure the personal safety of the ambassador.