Even if Qasab gets the death sentence today, the numerous processes involved post the verdict will ensure that he lives for quite some time, says Ujjwal Nikam.
If 26/11's lone surviving terrorist, Mohammad Ajmal Amir Qasab, does get the capital punishment today, it could take at least another 18 months for him to be hanged, Chief Public Prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam said, reports Mid Day.
Nikam explained that, should the death sentence be awarded, the matter will be placed before the High Court for confirmation of the death penalty -- a process which may take six to eight months.
The hanging could be prolonged by another six months if Qasab's lawyers move the Supreme Court and by a few months more if a mercy petition is placed before the President of India.
Nikam ruled out the possibility of Qasab being deported to Pakistan. Under section 403 of Pakistan's Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), Pakistan cannot ask for Qasab's deportation once he is convicted and a judge pronounces the verdict.
"I don't understand why they want Qasab to be deported. Pakistani authorities should act on the evidence provided to them by the Indian agencies and prosecute the other people (in Pakistan) involved in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks."
Pakistan has so far named five of their citizens in connection with the 26/11 carnage.
Qasab, on the other hand, had stated that 20 Pakistanis were involved, including LeT founding member Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi, JuD chief Hafiz Saeed and the other handlers, Abu Kafa and Abu Hamza.
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