The Supreme Court defers hearing on Balwant Singh Rajoana mercy petition to March 18. Rajoana, convicted of assassinating former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh in 1995, has awaited execution for over 29 years. A mercy petition filed by the SGPC on his behalf has remained pending for more than 13 years.
Rajoana, a former Punjab Police constable, received a death sentence in 2007 from a special court. The SC had earlier directed the Centre to decide on his mercy plea, citing inordinate delay. Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi emphasized the mental and physical strain caused to Rajoana due to the prolonged delay.
The Supreme Court repeatedly questioned the Centre on why the execution had not proceeded and gave clear instructions to finalize the mercy petition. Despite this, the MHA argued that the petition, filed by SGPC, cannot be considered until other convicts’ appeals are resolved and that a decision could affect law and order.
The SC has now scheduled the next hearing for March 18, making it the last chance for the Centre to respond. The case continues to attract attention due to its historical and legal significance.
The Supreme Court defers hearing at this stage, highlighting concerns over delayed justice and procedural clarity.
