Khurshid defends HC order on Marines

Union External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid said the Kerala High Court’s decision to allow the two Italian marines to return home for two weeks is “entirely a matter between court and petitioners”, but asserted that it was in the spirit of Christmas to show “generosity”.

The High Court has allowed Italian marines Latorre Massimillano and Salvatore Girone, accused of killing two Indian fishermen, to go home provided they return by January 10, 2013.

The HC ruled that a bank guarantee of `6 crore should be furnished by them if they leave the country.

Asked if the order was a demonstration of India going soft, Khurshid said, “It is neither being harsh or being soft. Courts have to decide what conditions have to be imposed.”  “People have to show some degree of generosity and compassion. It is time for Christmas and for families to be together,” he added.  “If we are asked to communicate what the Italian Government wants us to convey, we will do so,” said Khurshid.