Mumbai:
The Maharashtra Government has spent over Rs 25 crores to keep 26/11 terrorist Ajmal Kasab alive since he was captured in 2008. Speaking in the Maharashtra Assembly on Wednesday, state Home Minister RR Patil gave details of expenses for the sole surviving Pakistani terrorist.
Even as Kasab's trial continues in the Supreme Court, the cost of keeping him alive is a huge burden on the state exchequer. While the Government has spent Rs 5,25,00,000 on his high security cell at Mumbai's Arthur Road jail, his security entrusted to the Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has cost the state over Rs 19 crores.
Mr Patil also said that the state has once again asked the Centre to waive the charges, since terrorism is not a state subject alone.
On the other hand, the cost of salaries of the policemen who protect Kasab cost the state Rs 1,22,18,406. While his medical expenses cost Rs. 28,066, the state has paid another Rs. 34,975 for his food.
Ajmal Kasab was the only Pakistani terrorist caught alive during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks in 2008 and ironically, the city which bore the brunt of his brutality is paying to keep him safe.