The Supreme Court heard a petition related to Kashmiri separatist leader Yasin Malik. During the proceedings, the Supreme Court reiterated the importance of a fair trial, citing the case of Ajmal Kasab.

Malik has been asked to appear physically before a Jammu court in connection with the killing of four Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel in 1989. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has appealed against the order. However, Malik has said that he wants to appear in person.

Yasin Malik's visit to Kashmir can spoil the atmosphere: CBI

The CBI, while challenging the Jammu court order, has said that Malik's physical presence may vitiate the atmosphere in Jammu and Kashmir and witnesses against him may be in danger.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the central agency, told a bench of Justices A S Oka and A G Masih, "We do not want to take him to Jammu and Kashmir." Justice A S Oka asked, "But how can cross-examination be done in VC (video conference)." The bench also referred to the poor internet connectivity in Jammu.

Yasin Malik is not just another terrorist...

Tushar Mehta said that if Malik insists on appearing in person, the case could be transferred to Delhi. He also said that the separatist leaders were "playing tricks" by insisting on appearing in person. The Solicitor General said that Malik is "not just another terrorist".

What did the court say on Tushar Mehta's arguments?

After hearing the arguments of Tushar Mehta, Justice Oka said, "Listen to how many witnesses there are in the trial, in our country even Ajmal Kasab got a fair trial.

The court agreed that a court can be set up in the jail for the hearing. After this, the bench asked the Center how many witnesses would appear and what would be their security arrangements. The next hearing of the case will be on next Thursday.