New Delhi, Apr 2: The Supreme Court (SC) on Tuesday April 2 ended its ban on foreign travel for the Italian ambassador to India, a move that was prompted when Rome had refused to send back 2 marines to face murder charges in the national capital.

Italy has, however, objected to the government’s decision that the case will be investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).  It had been handled so far by the Kerala police.

Italy objects to marines case being handled by National Investigation Agency (NIA)

Airports had been asked to prevent Italian envoy Daniele Mancini from leaving India because he had assured the court in writing that the marines would return after a four-week break in Italy.

Italy reneged on its commitment, precipitating a diplomatic crisis. Meanwhile, on March 22, in a dramatic turnaround, Italy said the marines would return to stand trial. They landed in India just a few hours before their four-week deadline expired.

Their return came after India agreed that Massimiliano Latorre and Salvatore Girone can serve prison term in Italy, if they are convicted, and that they will not face the death penalty.

The SC has asked the union government to explain what action it is taking to set up a special fast-track court to try the marines swiftly, an assurance made by India to Italy. In January, SC had transferred the case out of Kerala.

Italy is concerned with the assignment of the case to the National Investigation Agency because the agency is empowered to deal with maritime piracy and terrorism, and serious charges can lead to a call for the death penalty.

The marines were guarding an Italian tanker when they shot two fishermen from Kerala at sea in February last year. The naval officers say they mistook the fishermen for pirates.

They are staying at the Italian embassy here and report once a week to a local police station.