Calcutta High Court Directs State Government to Decide on Amjad's Premature Release Within 30 Days
In a significant ruling concerning the 2003 murder of two traders, the Calcutta High Court has clarified that the final decision on the premature release of convict Amjad, infamously known as the 'butcher of Ghaziabad', rests with the state government of West Bengal. The court has directed the authorities to consider and decide on this matter within one month, emphasizing the state's pivotal role in such judicial reviews.
Background of the 2003 Double Murder Case
The case dates back to 2003, when Amjad and his accomplice were convicted for the brutal murder of two traders outside a central Kolkata hotel. This crime earned Amjad the notorious moniker, highlighting the severity of the offense. Over the years, his case has undergone various legal scrutinies, with recent developments focusing on his eligibility for early release.
Conflicting Decisions on Early Release
The State Sentence Review Board had previously approved Amjad's application for premature release, suggesting a potential path to freedom. However, in 2024, the judicial department denied this release based on the opinion of the chief judge of the City Sessions Court. The judge argued that Amjad 'deserves no mercy' and warned that releasing him could pose a threat to society and encourage recidivism.
High Court's Critical Observations
Justice Om Narayan Rai, presiding over the case, pointed out several oversights in the chief judge's assessment. The court noted that the judge failed to consider key factors, including:
- Whether Amjad has lost the potential to commit crimes in the future.
- The effectiveness of continuing his confinement from a rehabilitative perspective.
- The socio-economic condition of his family, which could impact reintegration into society.
These observations underscore the need for a comprehensive evaluation in such sensitive matters, balancing justice with humanitarian considerations.
Implications of the Ruling
The Calcutta High Court's directive places the onus squarely on the West Bengal state government to make a timely and informed decision. This ruling not only addresses Amjad's specific case but also sets a precedent for how premature release applications should be handled, ensuring that all relevant factors are thoroughly examined before reaching a conclusion.
As the one-month deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the state authorities to see how they navigate this complex legal and ethical dilemma, with potential implications for future similar cases in the region.
