The Gujarat High Court issued a directive to the Sabarmati central jail officials to convey one of the 38 convicts in the 2008 Ahmedabad serial bomb blasts case to engage a lawyer in the confirmation of the death sentence hearing.
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Ahmedabad: In the 2008 Ahmedabad serial blasts case, the Gujarat High Court, on Wednesday, issued an important directive concerning the legal representation of the convicts. The court instructed officials at the Sabarmati central jail to ensure that one of the 38 convicts, who had not yet engaged a lawyer, does so for the upcoming death sentence confirmation hearing. This move underscores the court’s commitment to ensuring due legal process.
The bench, comprising Justice AY Kogje and Justice Samir J. Dave, emphasized the importance of legal representation in such grave matters. They stated that if the convict is unable to appoint a lawyer, the court may intervene to assign one through the Legal Services Authority. This decision reflects the judiciary’s dedication to upholding the rights of the accused, even in cases involving severe penalties.
This directive follows the High Court’s action in March 2022, when it issued notices to the 38 convicts sentenced to death by a special court in February 2022. These notices were part of the procedure mandated by Section 366 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), which requires that death sentences passed by a Court of Session be confirmed by the High Court before execution.
The case in question relates to the horrific 2008 Ahmedabad serial blasts, which resulted in the tragic loss of 56 lives. The blasts, which occurred on July 26, 2008, targeted various locations across the city, including government-run hospitals, buses, and other public areas, creating a state of panic and chaos.
The Special Designated Judge, in a landmark judgment, awarded the death sentence to the 38 accused. They were convicted under Sections 302, 34, and 109 of the Indian Penal Code, along with Sections 10 and 16(1)(A)(B) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. This judgment marked a significant moment in India’s legal history, particularly in the context of terrorism-related offenses.
The Gujarat High Court’s recent directive is a crucial step in the judicial process, ensuring that all convicts receive fair representation during the confirmation of their death sentences. This action not only upholds the principles of justice but also reinforces the importance of legal due process, even in cases involving the most serious of crimes.
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