Penal Code, 1860–Secs. 53 & 302–Death sentence–Mercy petition–Exorbitant delay in disposal of mercy petition–It renders the execution of death sentence arbitrary, whimsical, and capricious–Prolonged delay in execution of death sentence gives rise to mental suffering and agony which renders the subsequent execution of death sentence in human and barbaric–Sentence commute in imprisonment for life.
