ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: The Indian government on Friday described release of 2008 Mumbai attack suspect Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi as an “insult” to the 26/11 victims and asked the international community to take note of Pakistan’s double standards.
The response came after the Lakhvi was release from Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail a day after the Lahore High Court (LHC) suspended detention orders issued against him.
“This is a very disappointing announcement. An insult to the victims of 26/11 Mumbai attack. The global community should take serious note of Pakistan’s double-speak on terrorism,” a senior Indian Home Ministry official said.
The 55-year-old Lakhvi was released from the prison on Friday morning after furnishing Rs2 million in surety bonds.
On Thursday, the LHC’s Justice Anwarul Haq ordered Lakhvi’s immediate release after the Punjab government failed to produce any proof against him.
The LHC’s order to release Lakhvi drew severe condemnation from India as New Delhi expressed disappointment over the decision and asked Islamabad to ensure terrorists like him do not come out of jail.
Lakhvi is among the seven persons charged with planning and helping carry out the November 2008 Mumbai attacks that left 166 people dead.
