Sanjay Dutt breaks down, says won't apply for pardon

Mumbai: Actor Sanjay Dutt broke down as he addressed the media this morning, saying he had not applied for a pardon and would abide by the decision of the Supreme Court, which has given him four weeks to surrender and serve the rest of his five-year sentence under the Arms Act for illegal possession of weapons in the 1993 Mumbai blasts case.

Mr Dutt, who has already served about a year-and-half in jail, appeared before cameras today in a white T-shirt and a big red tilak on his forehead. With hands folded he said, "I have not applied for a pardon. The Supreme Court has given me time and I will surrender at the right time... I have a lot of work to finish. I have to spend all this time with my family." (Read Sanjay Dutt's full statement)

The actor said he and his family were "shattered", but he would not seek a pardon as he believed there were others who deserved it more than him. There are two other people, including a 71-year-old woman, who have been convicted under a stringent terror law on charges similar to those against Mr Dutt. (Timeline: Sanjay Dutt convicted in 1993 Mumbai blasts)  

Breaking down while making his short statement, the actor bowed his head low and was comforted by his sister and Congress MP Priya Dutt, who sat next to him. Mr Dutt did not answer any questions; he hugged his sister, wiped tears and walked away quickly. (See pics)

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There has been much speculation on when the actor will surrender and begin serving three and a half years in jail amid a raging debate on whether he should seek a pardon.

The film fraternity and many politicians have spoken in his support, suggesting that he be pardoned. Former Samajwadi Party leader Amar Singh and actor-turned politician Jaya Prada met the Maharashtra Governor, K Sankaranarayanan, on Tuesday. Last week, Press Council chief Justice Markandey Katju wrote to the Governor to exercise his powers and pardon the actor.

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After Mr Dutt's statement today Mr Katju said he would continue to appeal for a pardon for the actor. Senior lawyer Majid Menon explained that any Indian citizen can seek a pardon for Mr Dutt under "compassionate grounds" even if the actor himself does not. (Will continue to seek pardon for Sanjay Dutt: Justice Katju)

Parties like the BJP and the Shiv Sena have said it would not be fair to pardon Mr Dutt.