Jadhav Case: India Demands Copies of Chargesheet, Verdict From Pak

Pakistan has denied consular access to Jadhav for the 14th time.

Kulbhushan Jadhav, who Islamabad claims is an Indian spy, was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court for espionage. (Photo: The Quint)

Indian High Commissioner in Islamabad Gautam Bambawale met Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua on Friday, in connection with the death sentence handed to retired Indian navy officer Kulbhushan Jadhav by an army court, on charges of “espionage and sabotage activities against Pakistan”.

Bambewale informed that India has demanded copies of the chargesheet filed and judgment given by Pakistani military court against Jadhav.

It also conveyed to Pakistan that it will appeal the order, and is currently studying the Pakistani Army Act.

The Indian envoy sought consular access to Jadhav for the 14th time under the international law, but Januja said that it is a case of espionage, and thus, consular access cannot be granted.

Also Read: 6 Questions Pakistan Needs to Answer About Kulbhushan Jadhav

Sources in New Delhi said apart from diplomatic options, India will also explore legal remedies permitted under Pakistan legal system, including Jadhav’s family appealing against the verdict.

Pakistan’s top military Generals on Thursday decided not to make any “compromise” on the death sentence handed to Jadhav.

Adviser to Pakistan Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz, while briefing a press conference on Friday, listed the options available to Jadhav in the case:

1. He can appeal in an appellate court within 40 days.
2. He can file a mercy petition with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) within 60 days of the decision by the appellate court.
3. He may lodge a mercy petition with the President of Pakistan within 90 days of COAS decision on the mercy petition.

Rajnath Refutes Pakistan’s Claim of Fair Trial to Jadhav

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday refuted Pakistan's claim of a fair trial being given to retired navy officer Kulbhushan Jadhav, and said all efforts were being made to secure justice for the Indian national.

"I do not agree with what Pakistan has said. Kulbhushan Jadhav did not get a fair trial," he told a press meet in New Delhi.

"All efforts are being made to secure justice for Jadhav. We will do everything," he added.

(With inputs from ANI and PTI.)

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