In a dramatic legal twist that could rewrite history, the Delhi High Court has mandated a fresh review of one of India's most controversial terrorism cases. The court has directed the Sentence Review Board to reconvene and reconsider the fate of Devinderpal Singh Bhullar, convicted for his role in the devastating 1993 Delhi bomb blasts that claimed nine lives and left countless injured.
A Case Revisited After Decades
The bench comprising Justice Suresh Kumar Kait and Justice Manoj Jain delivered this landmark ruling while addressing Bhullar's plea challenging the Sentence Review Board's decision from August 28, 2023. The court's intervention marks a potential turning point in a legal battle that has spanned over three decades.
The Legal Grounds for Review
The High Court's decision stems from critical observations about the initial review process. The court noted that the review board failed to properly consider Bhullar's conduct and performance during his incarceration, factors that are legally mandated for such evaluations. This oversight formed the cornerstone of the court's directive for a fresh, comprehensive assessment.
From Death Sentence to Life Imprisonment
Bhullar's legal journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Originally sentenced to death by a designated TADA court in 2001, his case went through numerous judicial layers. The Supreme Court eventually commuted his death penalty to life imprisonment in 2014, citing the inordinate delay in deciding his mercy petition and his deteriorating mental health condition.
The 1993 Blasts That Shook Delhi
The case originates from the horrific September 1993 bomb blasts that targeted the Youth Office outside the Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee office and the nearby building of the Indian Youth Congress. These coordinated explosions not only caused massive destruction but also marked a significant moment in India's fight against terrorism.
What's Next for Bhullar?
With the High Court's fresh directive, the Sentence Review Board must now:
- Conduct a thorough re-evaluation of Bhullar's case
- Properly assess his conduct during imprisonment
- Consider all relevant factors as per legal requirements
- Make a determination that could potentially lead to his release
This development represents more than just another legal proceeding—it signifies the evolving nature of India's judicial system and its approach to long-pending terrorism cases. The outcome could set important precedents for similar cases awaiting judicial review across the country.
