‘I Was Dismissed for Trying to Do My Job’

 In the latest twist, 26/11 terrorist Kasab’s former lawyer Abbas Kazmi has filed a contempt petition against the judge. 

Just when you thought the twists and turns of Ajmal Kasab’s trial were over, Abbas Kazmi, former defence lawyer of the lone terrorist who survived the 26/11 attacks, has filed a contempt case against Judge ML Tahaliyani for removing him from the case. 

Q What exactly is your case about? 

A I have moved a contempt petition in the high Court against the 26/11 trial judge, ML Tahaliyani. He dismissed me from the case on charges of non-cooperation and purposely delaying the trial.

Q Why did you take such a step?

A This is very unfair and I can’t live with the stigma. I had to clear my name. 

Q You were appointed by the same judge. What happened?

A I objected to the prosecution wanting to file some faulty affidavits. I was dismissed for trying to do my job. I had written to the Bar Council of India, the Chief Justice of India, the Appellate Side and others seeking redressal, but got no response from them. So I took the matter to the High Court. Two months ago I wrote to the Advocate General of Maharashtra for action against Tahaliyani under the Contempt Act. I have received no reply.

Q Will this affect your career?

A I know I could be victimised. But I am willing to live with the consequences.

Q Being Kasab’s lawyer didn’t really do much good for your career, did it?

A I was so involved in the case, I could not take new briefs. I had to return the money in cases I had taken or hand over the money and briefs to other lawyers. There is a threat to my life. I am a sitting duck for those who plan revenge.

Q Will the dismissal affect your other cases?

A It may. Clients will wonder what I did in the 26/11 trial court. They may lose confidence in me.

About The Author

Haima Deshpande