The Tamil Nadu government’s proposal to release seven convicts in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case has been rejected by the Centre. This is the second time in two years that the state had sought the views of the Centre on its decision to remit the convicts’ sentences.
According to The Hindu, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) told the state that “since the matter is pending with the Supreme Court, it has no authority to release the prisoners.”
We had sought the Law Ministry’s opinion on the letter sent by the state government. Now we have replied to them that they cannot release the seven prisoners.Home Ministry Official
Two days before the model code of conduct came into effect in the state which goes to the polls on 16 May, Chief Secretary K Gnanadesikan sent the letter to the MHA.
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