Should Supreme Court of India be lenient with Italian Marines?

Anything is possible and anything can be managed in a country like India, strongly believes the foreigners, especially the European Union. Perhaps, that is how the two Italian marines- Massimiliano Latorre and Salvatore Girone who were accused in killing of two Indian fishermen near Tamilnadu coast some three years ago were allowed to attend their family functions, festivals, medical treatment and all sorts of things in their country even before filing the charge sheet against them.

The Supreme Court has allowed them to go to their country on September 12 after the Government of India has stated ‘in principle’ it has no objections for their plea to leave the country. They both are expected to return to India in this December month. However, a formal request from the two marines was submitted to the Supreme Court through their counsels for extension of their stay in Italy. While, Latorre seeks extension to undergo a heart surgery in his country scheduled for January 8, 2015, Girone seeks extension to celebrate Christmas festival with his family in Italy.

A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice H L Dattu has turned down their pleas and insisted for their immediate return. It said “The trial has not commenced. Even the charge sheet has not been filed. It does not happen anywhere in the world. Let them come.” So, the counsels appearing for the two marines have withdrawn their applications and conveyed the court decision to them.

Unfortunately, the European Union's new foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini response is very shocking. He said “We are quite disappointed with the Supreme Court of India’s decision. This issue has been pending for almost three years. We have called for a mutually agreeable solution in the interest of Italy and India based on international law. The issue has potential of impacting the overall relations between EU and India. We are quite disappointed with the Supreme Court of India’s decision.” Earlier, Mogherini has served as foreign minister of Italy. Obviously, he may speak in favour of the marines.

Italy or EU may justify their arguments but they are not ready to honor the Indian laws and the Supreme Court of India’s decision. They are not even endorsing the point that the apex court of India is very liberal with the two marines and so are they able to shuttle between the two countries.

If people could recall how the US police have conducted a strip search on Indian diplomat Dewayani Khobragade, one can understand how the Indians will be treated even without committing any serious offence. But, the EU expects India to spare its two marines even they are accused in a murder case.