Kasab’s gone, but the brains behind 26/11 have evaded justice so far
With reference to the report 26/11 butcher hanged (November 22), the execution of Ajmal Kasab, the only surviving perpetrator of the 26/11 attacks, is welcome and a historic moment for India’s judicial
system. The timing of the execution is important. It’s clear that the UPA government wants to use it to improve its image and prove that it is not soft on terror, as the Opposition has accused it many times. However, hanging Kasab alone won’t bring a closure to the 26/11 case. It is important that the masterminds of the attack are also brought to justice. New Delhi, with help from Washington, should put pressure on Pakistan to punish those who brainwashed Kasab and sent him to India.
N Ramamurthy, Chennai
It’s important to consider that the delay in Kasab’s death has cost the nation dearly. Between the time Kasab was apprehended in 2010 and executed, India spent almost Rs. 70 crore of public money on his upkeep. Most of this amount could have been saved if the authorities concerned had not delayed the case. There was enough evidence to prove Kasab’s involvement in the 26/11 attacks. India could have executed him before the first anniversary of the attacks if it had wanted to. But it didn’t.
SP Sharma, Mumbai
A critical but gracious tribute
This refers to Sujata Anandan’s article A worthy opponent (November 21). I want to congratulate the writer for expressing her thoughts on Bal Thackeray in such an eloquent manner. Anandan shows how a writer can be graceful even in criticism. His habit of paying attention to every detail is praiseworthy and the writer brings it out quite well.
Anil Gupta, via email