Ajmal Kasab's execution: India stands by rule of law, Salman Khurshid tells NDTV

New Delhi: Foreign Minister Salman Khurshid, in an exclusive interview to NDTV says he was in the loop with developments related to Ajmal Kasab, and knew what was going to happen. Here are the highlights of his interview:

• We were in the loop and we knew what was to happen
• I do hope that message to the world is that India stands by the rule of law, whether the person is our citizen
• We did what was appropriate for us to. It was communicated to the family through government of Pakistan
• I hope we are not the only ones putting pressure on Pakistan
• We would like to know how much progress there is in the next few days (on 26/11 case in Pakistan)
• We have given Pakistan a wish list. We are expecting some movement. We are sure we are not alone in using such pressure on the Pakistani government
• No call on PM's visit to Pakistan; many of these factors will of course play a part
• This will necessarily be one of the more important issues to be factored in
• (On Secrecy) Was not pressure of any kind or trying to reach out to any constituency; law was scrupulously followed. A decision had to be taken at some time
• Do not want to comment on merits of any case. President of India is the last word and he is advised by the Home Minister
• It is not a question of political reality; you have to keep yourself aloof from anything extraneous from what is essentially a moral, legal and constitutional obligation
• I am sure in all other case same high standards will be adhered to
• We take decisions that are just and fair, you might see them as strong or soft.
  
• We believe we have done, what are conscience asks us to do.It is in the beholder's eye to see them as they please