Zaki-ur Rehman Lakhvi’s release belies Pak’s claim of curbing terror: Ujjwal Nikam

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Why Pakistan was seeking evidence from India when Lakhvi had hatched the conspiracy in Pakistan as revealed by Kasab in his testimony before the Indian court, he said.

“This blame-game by Pakistan shows its double standard in respect of the terrorists who launch attacks from that country and also from inside India,” Nikam said.

The Indian government had provided sufficient material evidence to Pakistan about terrorist acts committed by Kasab and nine others who caused mayhem in Mumbai during November 26-28, 2008, claiming many lives, Nikam said.

The Lahore High Court on Thursday suspended the detention of 55-year-old Lakhvi under Maintenance of Public Order after the Pakistan government failed to present sensitive records against him in the court.

Nikam noted that a judicial commission from Pakistan had visited Mumbai and Lakhvi’s lawyer had cross-examined the Mumbai magistrate who had recorded Kasab’s confession. The lawyer also grilled the investigation officer.

Nikam sought to know what Pakistan did with this evidence.  He also asked why Pakistani authorities did not challenge the
order passed by the trial court in that country (granting Lakhvi bail) instead of issuing a flimsy detention order just to show that they were serious about curbing terrorism.

“Pakistan can not make a distinction between good and bad terrorists. A terrorist is a terrorist and cannot be classified as good or bad. Pakistan should concentrate on collecting evidence instead of playing the blame-game,” Nikam said.