SC orders release of Rajiv Gandhi assassination accused AG Perarivalan

In a landmark verdict, the Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered the release of AG Perarivalan, a convict in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case, in exercise of the constitutional power under Article 142.

The court passed the order considering his good conduct in jail, medical condition, educational qualifications acquired while in custody and the pendency of his mercy plea with the Tamil Nadu Governor since 2015.

The apex court further held that the decision of the Governor to refer the mercy plea of Perarivalan to President of India has no constitutional backing.

He was released on bail by the Supreme Court in March this year.