Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Supreme Court has issued notices to the Union government and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on a curative petition filed by Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist Mohammad Arif, who was sentenced to death for his role in the 2000 Red Fort terror attack.
Final Legal Remedy Before Execution
The court has already upheld Arif’s death sentence while dismissing his review petition, and the curative petition represents the last judicial remedy available to him. The curative plea challenges the Supreme Court’s November 2022 verdict that confirmed the capital punishment.
Claims Raised in Curative Petition
In his petition, Mohammad Arif has raised fresh legal objections, arguing that call detail records were admitted as evidence in violation of provisions under the Indian Evidence Act, as they allegedly lacked the mandatory certification. He also contended that statements recorded between his actual and formal arrest should not have been admitted as evidence. The plea includes additional technical grounds questioning the trial process.
Background of the Red Fort Attack Case
Mohammad Arif was arrested on December 25, 2000, following the terror attack on the Red Fort. After trial, he was convicted on October 24, 2005, and sentenced to death on October 31 the same year. His appeals before the High Court and the Supreme Court were rejected, with all courts affirming the death penalty. The Supreme Court had termed the attack an assault on the unity and integrity of the nation. His mercy petition has already been rejected by President Droupadi Murmu.
