The Supreme Court Tuesday reserved its verdict on the petitions by Italy and its two marines,challenging their trial in India for allegedly killing two Indian fishermen off the Kerala coast in February. The courts decision came after the Italian governments counsel wrapped up his arguments. It is an unusual situation where a foreign state has assured it will take actions against its soldiers for the incident. They will be tried as per Italian laws. But the Indian government is unreasonably insisting on trying them here without any jurisdiction, said advocate Harish Salve. He said the initial action against the marines must have taken place in a state of excitement and passion but now the SC will decide the various legal issues. Arrears to Army officers: SC sticks to its 2010 order The Supreme Court Tuesday refused to interfere with its 2010 order granting cumulative benefits and arrears of rank pay to around 20,000 Army officers. The cost of these payments could be over Rs 1,500 crore. The court told the Centre to make the payment to all serving and retired officers within 12 weeks. The benefits,as per the courts order,have to be granted to all such officers notwithstanding whether or not they had moved any court of law.
