Congress 'deeply pained, disappointed' over release of Rajiv Gandhi assassin, slams govt

Congress Chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala also wondered if the lakhs of convicts facing life terms should be freed.

The Congress on May 18 expressed pain and disappointment over the release of Rajiv Gandhi assassination case convict A. G. Perarivalan, and slammed the government for creating "a situation" in the court where the killer of a former Prime Minister is released for "petty and cheap politics".

Congress Chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said today there is sorrow and fury not only in every Congress worker over the development but in every citizen who believes in India and Indianness.

"A terrorist is a terrorist and should be treated as one. Today, we are deeply pained and disappointed at the decision of the Supreme Court ordering the release of Rajiv Gandhi's assassin," Mr. Surjewala said.

It is condemnable and very unfortunate that the assassin of a former Prime Minister has been released, Mr. Surjewala said.

"Today is a sad day for the country. There is a sorrow and fury not only in every Congress worker, but in every Indian who believes in India and Indianness, who believes in fighting against extremism and every force that challenges the sovereignty and integrity of India," Mr. Surjewala told reporters.

Mr. Surjewala also wondered if the lakhs of convicts facing life terms should be freed.

This is not a question about Rajiv Gandhi, but about a Prime Minister who was killed, Mr. Surjewala said, adding the soul of every person fighting against terrorism has been hurt.