Sir — This refers to the editorial, “let him bear the cross” (March 26). Some partisan politicians and social activists have vociferously demanded pardon to Hindi film star Sanjay Dutt, convicted by the Supreme Court for acquiring illegal arms, under the provisions of the Arms Act.
The apex court has already in its ruling toned down Mr Dutt’s six-year sentence to a five-year jail term, in view of the fact that he has already done 18 months in prison. The court’s ruling is just, reasonable and free from partisan and prejudicial motive. And it should be honoured. Those who claim for pardon, including former justice Markandey Katju, have not argued on what consideration the actor should be granted such pardon.
Though he is not a terrorist, Sanjay Dutt had been in constant touch with those who had perpetrated the 1993 Mumbai blasts. He had surreptitiously acquired arms with a base motive. There has been no travesty of justice. He has been meted out punishment which an ordinary citizen would have deserved for committing a similar crime.