BJP, SAD differ over Supreme Court order on Bhullar

New Delhi, April 12 (IANS) Differences emerged between Punjab’s ruling allies Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and the BJP over the Supreme Court rejecting the mercy plea of 1993 Delhi bomb blast accused Devender Pal Singh Bhullar here Friday.

While the BJP said that the apex court order should be respected, the Akali Dal termed it as “unfortunate”.

BJP leader Balbir Punj said: “Whatsoever the punishment awarded by the apex court should be implemented. There cannot be any exceptions.”

“Those who dared to challenge the authority of the state and those who wage war against the state and conspire to destabilise the country should be ready to face consequences,” said Punj.

Senior Akali Dal leader Prem Singh Chandumajra said: “It is an unfortunate judgment. We were hoping that the court would keep in mind the situation in Punjab at that time. We will appeal to the president to review the decision. We will also appeal to the prime minister to intervene.”

The Supreme Court Friday dismissed a plea by Bhullar challenging the rejection of his mercy plea by the president.

Bhullar was sentenced to death for the 1993 blast at the Youth Congress office in Delhi in which nine people were killed and 30 injured. The attack targetted then Indian Youth Congress president M.S. Bitta.

Bhullar had filed a mercy petition Jan 14, 2003, which was rejected by the president May 25, 2011.

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