I am amazed to see many reports/write-ups/opinions coming
out voicing concern over the kind of trial that Afzal Guru received and also on
his execution process. Without going into the merits and demerits of the arguments,
I would only say that it is a bit late for these tears to flow, now that the terrorist
is no more. India’s notoriously slow justice system ensures that the accused has
more than enough time to present his case elaborately. In this case, the
convict was on death row for such a ridiculously long time. Where were all these
wise men till now?
Having said that, I would like to see the body of Afzal
Guru handed over to his family. When New Delhi can hand over the body of Pakistani
soldier with full state honor, why can’t we do it in this case (sans state
honor, of course)?