October 19, 2024: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has formally opposed gangster Abu Salem's recent plea in the Supreme Court, where he sought clarity on his anticipated release date following his jail sentence. Salem, convicted for his role in the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts and the murder of builder Pradeep Jain, was sentenced to two life terms.

In his petition, Salem highlighted the circumstances of his extradition from Portugal, citing assurances that he would not face the death penalty and that his total imprisonment would not exceed 25 years. According to the Supreme Court's order, this 25-year period is to be calculated from October 12, 2005, the date he was taken into Indian custody.

The CBI contended that Salem is required to serve a total of 25 years, including the time he spent as an under-trial prisoner. In an affidavit, the agency emphasized that the recognition of this period will only occur one month before the 25-year term is completed, asserting that the prison authorities are not obligated to provide an exact release date.

The agency also clarified that remissions are calculated solely for the purpose of assessing actual sentence duration. The CBI's interpretation aligns with the Supreme Court's ruling, suggesting that any further clarifications on this matter should be sought directly from the apex court.

Currently incarcerated at Nashik Central Prison, Salem claims to have served over 23 years. However, the CBI disputes this, stating that he has only completed approximately 19 years in custody, indicating that he has more time left to serve before he can be eligible for release.