Maharashtra braces for Memon's execution

After the rejection of death row convict Yakub A.R. Memon's pleas by the Supreme Court and the Maharashtra governor, the state government is gearing up to execute him at 7 a.m. on Thursday in Nagpur Central Jail (NCJ).

The state government has deployed additional security in and around the NCJ premises, outside Memon's residence in Mahim and other sensitive spots across the state to prevent any adverse fallout of the execution.

Director General of Police Sanjeev Dayal and Mumbai Police Commissioner Rakesh Maria met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis shortly after the Supreme Court verdict and the governor's decision in the matter.

Governor C.V. Rao on Wednesday rejected Yakub Memon's plea for clemency, shortly after a three-judge bench of the Supreme Court rejected his appeal filed before it earlier this week.

This paved the way for Memon's scheduled execution on Thursday - ironically on his 54th birthday - for his role and conviction in the March 12, 1993 Mumbai serial blasts case.

Commenting on the latest developments, Special Public Prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam said there were no legal hurdles now to give effect to the death warrant issued against Memon.

A police constable, who also doubles as a professional hangman, arrived in Nagpur earlier this week to finalise the preparations for the high-profile hanging.

Memon's family members, including his wife and daughter, two brothers and other relatives, are in Nagpur for a final meeting with him.

As per the procedure, on Thursday morning, Memon will be permitted a bathe, wear fresh clothes and offer prayers.

Later, he will be given a breakfast of his choice, undergo a final medical examination, and given full information on why he is being hanged, before he is taken to the gallows.