'Adverse inference' can be drawn if Lakhvi refuses to give voice sample: Ujjawal Nikam

Special public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam on Sunday said that 'adverse inference' can be drawn if Mumbai terror attack mastermind Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi refuses to give voice sample and asked as to why the prosecution in Pakistan did not seek the same earlier.

"If Pakistan Prime Minister assures Indian Prime Minister that they are ready to give voice samples, then how can Lakhvi refuse it? Because according to Pakistan Terrorist Act, there is a recent amendment that if any person refuses to give voice samples, as far as the accused is concerned, then a necessary adverse inference is required to be drawn," Nikam said.

Array

"It is very clear that trial in Pakistan is on the verge of completion, now why Pakistani prosecution had not taken voice sample earlier during the investigation, all these questions need to be answered by Pakistan," he added.

A joint media statement released after the between Prime Minister Modi and his Pakistani counterpart in Russia on Friday outlined that both sides had decided to expedite the 26/11 Mumbai attacks trial, including additional information like providing voice samples.

The joint statement also said that both sides had agreed to hold a meeting in New Delhi between the two NSAs to discuss all issues connected to terrorism.