The CBI has further demanded that this case has to be viewed in the larger context of mass crimes and requires a different approach than ‘a case of normal murder/rioting’.

The affidavit by the CBI has also said that there was an abject failure by police to register separate FIRs.

“Rather, several complaints of riot victims were clubbed together…”

Arguing against Kumar’s age clause, the agency submitted that his age – 73 – is of no relevance, especially when seen in light of the offence for which he has been convicted.

The CBI said that at the time of the incident, Kumar was a Member of Parliament of the then ruling party in India and killings in this case had taken place in pursuance to the provocative speeches made by him against the Sikh community.