The mercy petition is “one option, among several,” said a diplomatic source. The discussion on the appeal and mercy petitions was held in the backdrop of Pakistan’s silence over India’s 14th request for consular access to Mr. Jadhav made by High Commissioner Gautam Bambawale on Friday. On Friday, Pakistan Prime Minister’s adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz had said Mr Jadhav was free to appeal within 40 days to an Appellate Court. He had also pointed out that Mr Jadhav would also have the option of appealing to the Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan within 60 days. “He may lodge a mercy petition to the president of Pakistan within 90 days after the decision of COAS on the mercy petition,” said Mr Aziz explaining the ultimate option available to him.

Source: The Hindu April 15, 2017 18:44 UTC