Delhi High Court’s Decision on Hari Singh’s Plea

The Delhi High Court has taken a significant step in the case of Hari Singh, who is currently serving a life sentence for his involvement in the 1993 hijacking of an Indian Airlines flight. Justice Sanjeev Narula has overturned the Sentence Review Board’s (SRB) previous decision to deny Singh’s request for early release. This development comes after a thorough review of Singh’s conduct during his 18 years of incarceration, which has been marked by exemplary behavior and an absence of any criminal incidents.

Background of the 1993 Hijacking Incident

Hari Singh was convicted for his role in the hijacking of an Indian Airlines flight in 1993, a crime that had significant repercussions at the time. The incident was a major security breach and led to heightened measures in aviation security across the country. Singh’s conviction resulted in a life sentence, reflecting the severity of the crime.

Justice Narula’s Rationale for Overturning SRB Decision

Justice Sanjeev Narula’s decision to overturn the SRB’s denial is rooted in Singh’s demonstrated reformation during his time in prison. Over the past 18 years, Singh has shown consistent good behavior and has not been involved in any criminal activities while incarcerated. This positive conduct played a crucial role in Justice Narula’s decision to grant a fresh review of Singh’s plea for early release.

Implications of the Court’s Decision

The court’s decision to reconsider Singh’s plea could set a precedent for other cases involving long-term inmates who have shown significant rehabilitation. It highlights the importance of evaluating an inmate’s behavior and potential for reintegration into society when considering early release applications. The outcome of this case may influence future decisions by the Sentence Review Board and similar bodies regarding the early release of reformed convicts.

Next Steps in Hari Singh’s Case

The Delhi High Court has directed the Sentence Review Board to conduct a fresh evaluation of Hari Singh’s application for early release. This process will involve a detailed assessment of his conduct and potential risk to society, ensuring that all factors are considered before making a final decision.