Ready with charge sheet against Italian marines: NIA to court

The court, which was scheduled to hear the arguments on NIA's plea requesting it to take “appropriate steps” to secure the custody of the marines, fixed the matter for February 25.  “Counsel for the NIA and the accused have apprised this court that the matter concerning the present application and other related issues are subject matter of the petition filed before the Supreme Court... the application is adjourned for hearing on February 25,” the judge said.  

The court, however, made it clear that in case the charge sheet is filed, it will proceed with the matter.  

A Supreme Court bench headed by Justice B S Chauhan is hearing the plea filed by Ambassador of Italy Daniele Mancini and the two marines challenging invoking of anti-terrorism law SUA (Suppression of Unlawful Acts against Safety of Maritime Navigation And Fixed Platforms on Continental Shelf) Act.  

It has also sought direction to the Centre and the NIA to expedite the proceedings in the case or discharge the marines.