ICJ stays Kulbhushan Jadhav’s execution till final order

18 May, The Hague

International Court of Justice Thursday stayed the execution of Kulbhushan Jadhav till its final decision. Ruling in favour of India, the Court asked Pakistan to keep it informed about the measures, including on consular access, taken by it in this connection.

Reading out the verdict this evening at The Hague, Netherlands, ICJ President Ronny Abraham said that India has the right to consular access to Jadhav under Vienna convention. He said the court considers that it has prima facie jurisdiction in the matter as there is a dispute between the parties.

He said acts alleged by India fall in the Vienna convention which guarantees state to be given access to its citizen. He added the rights invoked by India under the Vienna Convention are plausible.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said the ICJ order has come as a great relief to the family of Kulbhushan Jadhav and people of India.

Mrs Swaraj said the government is grateful to Mr Harish Salve for presenting India’s case so effectively before ICJ.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Venkaiah Naidu has hailed International Court of Justice’s decision as a major victory for India.

In a tweet, Naidu said the World Court has upheld India’s right to consular access and put a stay on death execution. He said justice has prevailed in the matter.

International Court of Justice today stayed the execution of Kulbhushan Jadhav pending final decision.