Kasab entitled to rights, privileges

After an accused is convicted, he is entitled to certain facilities under the Prisons (prisoners sentenced to death) Rules 1971, according to lawyer Sayaji Nangre.

Since Kasab has been convicted in the 26/11 terror attack case, he, too, shall be entitled to such facilities prescribed under the Prison Rules, he said.

Kasab may be permitted to have interviews with his relatives, friends and lawyers if the Superintendent of Prison is of the opinion that such permission may be granted to him. So far, none of his relatives or friends have contacted him.

The Superintendent has the discretion to allow Kasab read religious books, keep religious pictures, rosary and essential emblems, subject to security checks. Kasab may also be allowed to read newspapers and books with the permission of the Jail Superintendent.

On the recommendation of medical officer, Kasab may be allowed to exercise in open air within the prison walls in morning and evening hours under the care of a guard. Kasab may also be given tobacco and other indulgences if the Superintendent deems fit.

Case-file in HC not before 3 months

The exercise of forwarding the case papers and  judgement of 26/11 special court to the Bombay High Court for confirmation of death penalty imposed on terrorist Ajmal Kasab would take at least three months, reports PTI from Mumbai.

The 1522-page judgement, proceedings of the year-long trial, evidence tendered by witnesses as well as the original copies of exhibits and documents would be compiled in a ‘paper book’ and sent to the high court. The ‘paper book’ would be forwarded by this month and thereafter the high court staff would get involved in printing its contents, which would take at least three months.