'We have been sent to gallows by media, people'

A special Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) court on Monday  convicted Ashrat Ansari, Hanif Sayed and his wife Fehmida for conducting blasts at Gateway of India and Zaveri Bazaar in south Mumbai and at suburban Ghatkopar, killing 54 persons and injuring 244 others.

"The court's verdict is not surprising and does not change anything. We have been held guilty by the media and people long before. The media has today even said that I would face capital punishment," Hanif said outside the courtroom.

Hanif was seen hugging his wife and 22-year-old daughter Farheen outside the courtroom after the verdict.

Farheen, who was then 16, was also made an co-accused but was later discharged by the juvenile court after the police said that she is not involved in the case.

Hanif and Fehmida, have another six-year-old daughter.

"There is no direct evidence against me and I will appeal in High Court," Ashrat said.