CPI calls for reviewing Yakub Memon's death sentence

The Communist Party of India (CPI) on Wednesday said that it is opposed to capital punishment, adding that the case of 1993 Mumbai blasts convict Yakub Memon needs to be reviewed.

"We are opposed to capital punishment and I think India should say no to capital punishment. This Yakub Memon case needs to reviewed and his death sentence needs to be revised. There are numerous intellectuals who have signed the mercy petition. Let's wait and see," said CPI leader D. Raja.

A three-judge bench comprising Justices Dipak Misra, Prafulla C. Pant and Amitava Roy will today hear Yakub's plea seeking a stay on his execution.

Chief Justice of India H.L. Dattu constituted a larger three-judge bench after a two-judge bench of Justices A.R. Dave and Kurian Joseph yesterday gave a split verdict on Yakub's plea. While Justice Dave dismissed his plea without staying the death warrant, Justice Kurian differed and favoured a stay.