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Extradited mobster Abu Salem has alleged that India has violated the terms of
his extradition and plans to seek a Lisbon court intervention to recall him to
Portugal. Salem and his companion Monica Bedi were extradited from Portugal
last year after a long legal battle to stand trial in connection with eight
criminal cases. India had agreed that no further investigations would be
carried out in these cases as they were fait accompli.
However, Salem’s interrogations with the police have led to not just his
confession on these 8 crimes but also pointers to other crimes that he had
committed. However, Salem’s defense team started claiming that the
“confessions” have been extracted and wanted them dismissed.
Indian investigators say that the charge-sheets filed against Salem in the
murder cases of builder Pradeep Jain and Manisha Koirala’s secretary Ajit
Dewani apart from the 1993 Mumbai blasts case. They therefore conclude that
that Salem was subject to further investigations.
Even if there is a ruling against India in Portugal, it is highly unlikely
that the Indian Government will give up a prize catch like Salem. While these
may lead to tensions with Portugal, India must keep its eye on the bigger
picture which is the fight against terror. Repatriating Salem will send the
wrong message.
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