Hang Kasab at earliest, says Maharashtra Home Minister

MUMBAI: Maharashtra Home Minister RR Patil today welcomed the Supreme Court's verdict upholding the death sentence of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack convict Ajmal Kasab and demanded the sentence be executed at the earliest.

"I welcome the apex court's verdict and will ask the Centre to ensure that it is implemented as soon as possible," Patil said.

The entire international community was watching the outcome of the case, the minister told reporters. "Our agencies were successful in highlighting the role of terror outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba," he said.

On the apex court upholding the acquittal of two Indians, Faheem Ansari and Sabauddin Ahmed, who were alleged to be co-conspirators in the Mumbai terror attack case, Patil said he would seek legal advice on the matter.

"The terror plot was hatched in Pakistan. This was an attack on the country. Innocents were killed. In a way, it was a war waged against India," Patil said.

Referring to the issue of mercy petition, Patil said, "This is a different case. The central government needs to look at it differently. The sentence should be carried out soon."

Patil lauded the role played by senior IPS officer Rakesh Maria and his team, the Crime Branch, ATS and other state and Central agencies in the case.

State Congress president Manikrao Thakre also welcomed the Supreme Court order.

NCP state president Madhukar Pichad said the Supreme Court upholding the High court verdict shows that the investigations were conducted properly.

"The death sentence is the appropriate punishment for the crime committed by Kasab. It was not an ordinary crime but an attack on our country. The punishment should be executed at the earliest," Pichad said.