Ajmal Kasab Hanged; Another chapter closed

26th November, 2011 was that unfortunate date when 166 people were slayed by 10 terrorists in financial hub of one of the world's most populated state, India. The 25-year-old Kasab was one of 10 gunmen who laid siege to the city in this attack. During the attacks, the heavily-armed gunmen stormed targets in Mumbai including luxury hotels, a Jewish center, a hospital and a bustling train station.

Kasab initially pleaded not guilty at his trial but later confessed that he is one of the gunmen being sent to create unrest in the city. He was sentenced to death in May 2010 after he was found guilty of a string of charges, including waging war against India, murder and terrorist acts.

Kasab appealed in the Supreme Court, claiming he did not receive a fair trial but his petition was struck down in August. During his appeal, Kasab argued that he was denied proper legal representation and that some charges against him were not proved beyond a reasonable doubt.

“I was denied a fair trial,” Kasab said in a statement when his appeal hearing began in January. “I may be guilty of killing people and carrying out a terrorist act but I am not guilty of waging war against the state.”

Allah qasam maaf karna, aisi galthi dobara nahi hogi' (I swear by Allah, please forgive me, such a mistake won't be repeated) were the last words uttered by terrorist Ajmal Kasab when he was being taken to the gallows at the Yerawada central prison here at 7.30 am on Wednesday. Sources said Kasab was speaking incoherently for a while until the lever was pulled.

The entire process was very well planned but carried out very secretly. Even the local administration of the police station was not aware of it. Surprisingly, Ajmal also didn’t show any resistance while moving towards the gallows.

Ajmal’s death is one of the quickest penalties implied over terrorism crimes since independence. the nation was criticizing since long and demanding quick decisions on this case. However, after the news appeared in print, electronic and social media many celebrated it. Indian High Commission has informed Pakistan about the decision.