Nirbhaya case: Tihar conducts another mock hanging, asks for new ropes

TNN | Jan 28, 2020, 04.49 AM IST

NEW DELHI: Tihar Jail authorities on Sunday conducted another mock hanging of the four Nirbhaya case convicts as they are likely to be hanged on February 1. Sources said the hangman, Pawan Jallad, has been asked to report to Tihar on January 30.

The authorities have asked for a dozen new manila ropes from Buxar prison, which would be lubricated and left to dry for two days. Sources said a mock drill is a mandatory procedure before every hanging since the body weight of the convicts tends to change. The dummy hanging was conducted using four sacks filled with sand and gravel that had similar weights as the convicts to check the strength of the ropes that would be used for the actual execution. The sacks were left suspended for three hours after which an expert checked the condition of the ropes.

Jail sources said the wardens and doctors of Tihar have been asked to ensure that the body weight of the four convicts remains constant till they are hanged. The authorities have taken the measurements of the necks and heads of the four convicts. The hangman will prepare the noose according to the measurements.

On Monday, the family members of convict Akshay Kumar Singh were allowed to meet him. In the emotional meeting, he discussed about the legal recourse with his parents. He, Pawan and Vinay have the option of filing a mercy plea before the President.


The families of the other inmates will be allowed to meet them twice a week as per their schedule. During the meeting, the family members will be allowed to take the personal belongings of the convicts and record a will in the presence of a superintendent. The convicts have refused to give the last date of their meeting to the jail authorities despite several reminders. They have also refused to prepare a will. A red notice will be sent to the families about the execution so that they can make preparations to take back the bodies.