State offers limited emergency release if gangster pays escort
Maharashtra prison authorities informed the Bombay High Court on Tuesday regarding their stance on the temporary release of 1993 Mumbai serial blasts convict, Abu Salem. The state government expressed willingness to grant the gangster a two-day emergency parole to attend rituals following his elder brother's death, provided specific security conditions are met.
During the hearing before a bench comprising Justices Ajey S Gadkari and Shyam C Chandak, the state emphasized that Salem is classified as an "international criminal." Consequently, authorities argued he cannot be released without a heavy police escort. Furthermore, the state insisted that the convict must bear the entire financial burden of these security arrangements.
Chief Public Prosecutor Mankunwar Deshmukh, representing the prison authorities, submitted that while a decision was taken to allow a 48-hour release, strict surveillance is non-negotiable.
Defense Argues Time Constraints
Advocate Farhana Shah, appearing for the petitioner, contested the duration of the offer. She argued that a two-day period is insufficient for the intended purpose. Salem needs to travel to Azamgarh in Uttar Pradesh, and considering the travel time involved, the defense maintained their request for a 14-day emergency parole.
The court has directed the state government to file a comprehensive reply by next week. This affidavit must detail the state's specific security apprehensions and provide a breakdown of the required escort charges.
Background of the Case
Abu Salem has been in custody since his arrest on November 24, 2005. He was convicted in the serial blasts case in September 2017. Previously, the Supreme Court noted in July 2022 that the central government is bound to advise the President regarding Salem's release after he completes 25 years of imprisonment, honouring the extradition treaty signed with Portugal.
The hearing has been adjourned as the court awaits the state's detailed response on the logistics and costs associated with the potential Abu Salem parole.
