In a massive development, Rajiv Gandhi assassination convict A.G. Perarivalan on Wednesday was released by the Supreme Court of India, who was sentenced to life imprisonment. Rajiv Gandhi assassination convict A.G. Perarivalan raises many eyebrows especially from the Congress camp as the Supreme Court of India invoked its special powers to release him. A.G. Perarivalan's release by the Supreme Court of India has also sent shockwaves to a particulate section of society and especially among the Congress camp.
Now, people are wondering what was A.G. Perarivalan role in Rajiv Gandhi assassination and how the apex court released despite the murder of the former Prime Minister of India.
Also Read: SC uses extraordinary powers to free Rajiv Gandhi killing case convict Perarivalan (2nd Lead)
As per reports, Perarivalan's role in Rajiv Gandhi's assassination was that he bought batteries for Srivarasan, the LTTE member, who was the mastermind behind the killing of the former Prime Minister of India. The batteries were used in the bomb that killed the former prime minister.
Notably, Perarivalan served 31 years in jail. He was just 19 years old when he was convicted based on his confession. It is pertinent to mention here that in the past his death sentence was commuted to life sentence and terrorism charges were withdrawn.
Now, for those who are wondering why the SC released Perarivalan despite such a serious offense can read further. As per IANS, the Supreme Court on Wednesday invoked its extraordinary powers to do complete justice under Article 142 of the Constitution, as it ordered the release of A.G. Perarivalan, sentenced to life in the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.
A bench of Justices L. Nageswara Rao, B.R. Gavai, and A.S. Bopanna said: "In the exceptional facts and circumstances of this case, in exercise of our power under Article 142 of the Constitution, we direct that the appellant is deemed to have served the sentence in connection with crime... The Appellant, who is on bail, is set at liberty forthwith."
Congress slams Centre for Rajiv Gandhi assassination convict release
As soon as Perarivalan was released, Congress slammed the centre. Congress leader and spokesperson Randeep Surjewala called Perarivalan's release as 'sad day for country'. "A terrorist is a terrorist and should be treated as one. Today, we are deeply pained and disappointed at the decision of the Supreme Court ordering the release of Rajiv Gandhi's assassin," said Surjewala.
Furthermore, Surjewala said, "Today is a sad day for the country. There is a sorrow and fury not only in every Congress worker, but in every Indian who believes in India and Indianness, who believes in fighting against extremism and every force that challenges the sovereignty and integrity of India."