Sarabjit appeals to Zardari in the name of Islam, humanity

ISLAMABAD: Indian prisoner on death row Sarabjit Singh has made an emotional appeal to Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari pleading amnesty, so that he could live his "remaining life with his wife and children."

The mercy petition, to be submitted to Zardari tomorrow reads, "I Sarabjit Singh, a prisoner for death, is languishing in jail's dark cell for the last 19 years."

"I appeal you in the name of Allah and humanity that kindly pardon me so that whatever months and years I have left with me, I could spent them with my wife and children in my country," Sarabjit said in his petition written in Urdu.

According to Singh's new lawyer Awais Sheikh, the fresh petition will be filed before Zardari tomorrow in the wake of the Supreme Court dismissing his appeal against the capital punishment.

Sarabjit reminded the Pakistani President that, "Your religion Islam teaches forgiveness instead of taking revenge."

"I pray to Allah for your long life and happiness," the petition added.