Pro-Khalistan plot: Arrested duo plead guilty, given 5-years rigorous imprisonment

MUMBAI: Two accused, arrested for being part of the pro-Khalistan and indulging in illegal acts, were convicted by a special NIA court on Wednesday and sentenced to five years rigorous imprisonment after they pleaded guilty to the charges.
Among various offences, special judge AM Patil found the duo — Harpal Singh (50), adriver from Karnataka and Gurjeet Singh Nijjar (42), a labourer from Punjab, guilty of terror-related charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
The prosecution said though the accused have admitted their guilt, but looking to the facts and circumstances of the case, they are liable to be punished for maximum sentence. On the other hand, advocate H Y Kotwala and both accused argued that they are the only earning members of the family.
While Harpal was arrested on December 2, 2018, Gurjeet was arrested on December 22, 2020. The time they spent in jail will be set off against the sentence.
Two other accused, retired Delhi ACP Sundar Lal Parashar and Moin Khan are still undertrials.
Special public prosecutor Sunil Gonsalves submitted draft charges on Wednesday, after which the judge framed charges which were explained to the accused. Harpal and Gurjeet were given time to consult their lawyer. Later, they pleaded guilty to the charges.
The judge noted, “After understanding contents of charge, voluntarily and willingly, the accused pleaded guilty to the charge. Both the accused are fully aware of consequences of advancing plead guilt,” the judge said.