The Supreme Court on Tuesday commuted the death sentence of a man, who had kidnapped and killed a seven-year-old boy in Tamil Nadu in 2009, to 20-year imprisonment, saying there was "possibility of reformation" even though he has committed a ghastly crime.
Calling on the Centre to reflect and respond to the issue, the top court pointed out if execution of the death penalty by hanging is "humane".
As per India Today, the observation were made during the hearing on a plea seeking a ban on the punishment of death by hanging.
The top court said even though the crime committed by the man is unquestionably grave and unpardonable, it is not appropriate to affirm the death sentence that was awarded to him.
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With PTI Inputs