Kochi: Following the Italian Government’s refusal to hand over two of their marines accused of murdering Indian fishermen off the Kerala coast almost four years ago, lawyer C. Unnikrishnan, on Wednesday dubbed Rome’s decision a retraction of the promise to the Supreme Court of India.
Unnikrishnan, the lawyer of victim’s wife, told ANI that one of the two marines was taken to Italy for medical purpose for a tenure of six months, adding that the extension given to him is getting over today. “The ambassador of Italy filed an affidavit seeking release of that man to take him to Italy. The Supreme Court granted the permission because it was a medical case. Now, they are retracting from their promise. That is highly unfair. The Supreme Court can initiate any proceeding against him,” he said.
Asserting that Italy’s stand was totally, Unnikrishnan said that the apex court allowed him to leave the country on medical ground, adding now it is his responsibility to obey the order of the highest court. “The Italian marine has no diplomatic protections. Therefore, the Supreme Court can take suo-moto; any action for violation of their orders,” he added.
