Italian Marines case is about ensuring justice: Syed Akbaruddin

Commenting on the Central Government's decision to withdrew anti-piracy charges in the Supreme Court against the two Italian marines, charged with the killing of fishermen, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin said the issue is about holding the culprits accountable under the Indian law and also hoped that justice is meted out in the case.

"This is not about anyone blinking. It's about trying to ensure that those who are charged with crimes are held accountable under Indian law. It is not a bilateral issue between India and Italy. Nor it is a multilateral issue between India and any other country," said Akbaruddin.

"It is a legal matter which is subject to Indian law. We are happy that it has now been decided by the lawyers that the best way to hold two Italian Marines accountable is through a law which has now been indicated by our legal officials," he added.

He also hoped that the Indian authorities are allowed to proceed expeditiously and ensure that justice is meted out in this case.

Earlier today, the Centre withdrew anti-piracy charges in the Supreme Court against the two Italian marines.

The current move will rule out the chances of death penalty for the two marines who are facing trial for allegedly killing two Indian fishermen off Kerala coast in February 2012.

Earlier, Italy had expressed disappointment over the apex court decision to postpone the hearing in the case of the Italian marines charged with the killing of fishermen, an incident that soured diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The government has given its approval to an investigation agency to charge the sailors under its maritime security law, but said it would not seek death penalty if they were found guilty. Italy strongly opposes India invoking the law, arguing that it would equate to treating the men as terrorists.

Massimiliano Latorre and Salvatore Girone, part of a military security team protecting a cargo ship off the coast of Kerala, say they thought the fishermen were pirates and fired shots to warn them off.