The Supreme Court questioned the Centre over the 17-year delay in executing Balwant Singh Rajoana, convicted for assassinating Punjab CM Beant Singh in 1995. The Court asked, “Who is to blame for that?” while hearing his plea to commute the death sentence.
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court of India has today (20th Jan) stated that it will either wait for the Union Government to take a decision or will proceed to decide on the merits of a mercy petition filed by Balwant Singh Rajoana. This petition seeks to reduce his death sentence to life imprisonment. The petition has been pending before the President of India since 2012.
![[Ex-Punjab CM Beant Singh Assassination] "Additional 4 Weeks Granted": SC Directs Centre to Decide on Balwant Singh Rajoana's Mercy Plea](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/image-39.png?resize=300%2C150&ssl=1)
Today, On 25th November, the Supreme Court extended by four weeks the government’s deadline to decide on Balwant Singh Rajoana’s mercy plea, tied to his death sentence for assassinating former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh. The case raises significant legal and political issues related to clemency, justice, and national security concerns over pro-Khalistan sentiment.
Today, On 18th November, the Supreme Court directed the President’s secretary to present Balwant Singh Rajoana’s mercy petition to President Droupadi Murmu within two weeks. Rajoana, sentenced to death for the 1995 assassination of Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh, seeks commutation of his sentence. The case highlights ongoing debates about the death penalty in India.