my uttarakhand news BureauDehradun, 14 Dec: The much-anticipated book, ‘Mission Saudi’, authored by Aloke Lal and Maanas Lal, was formally launched on the second day of the Crime Literature Festival of India at Hyatt Centric, Dehradun. The launch session, titled ‘Launch of Mission Saudi: India’s First-ever Extradition of a Rape Accused’, drew a deeply engaged audience and sparked intense discussion around crime, justice, law, and human compassion. The book was launched by the renowned Indian film director, producer and screenwriter, Ketan Mehta, while the session was moderated by Anirban Bhattacharya, the creator of Savdhaan India and Crime Patrol.Speaking during the session, author and former Director General of Police, Uttarakhand, Aloke Lal, highlighted the human and legal complexities surrounding the case. He noted that crime cannot be viewed merely through the lens of legality, as it is deeply intertwined with human emotions and compassion. Referring to the case detailed in the book, he spoke about the devastating trauma that led to the victim’s suicide, followed by the deaths of her father and stepfather. Aloke Lal described extradition as one of the most challenging aspects of criminal law, explaining that every document must comply precisely with the legal framework of another sovereign nation, often governed by entirely different laws.He further explained that the differences between the legal systems of the country where the crime occurs and the country where the accused escapes make extradition exceptionally difficult. He shared that the chapter on extradition law was the most demanding to write in the book and remarked that if even life imprisonment for rapists is seen as inadequate, then the responsibility lies with society and lawmakers to amend the law. Reflecting personally, he said that his biggest takeaway from writing Mission Saudi was the confidence he gained, especially since he was initially hesitant to narrate this story. He also described the SC/ST Act as a complex and, at times, perplexing piece of legislation that requires careful, case-specific interpretation.Co-author Maanas Lal, speaking on the occasion, shared the emotional toll the case took on him while writing the book. He recalled that the Indian Embassy had declined further assistance after identifying the accused within the stipulated 48-hour window, stating that the victim’s stay in Saudi Arabia would not be extended. He described the case— involving a teenage Dalit girl who was raped and impregnated by a relative— as emotionally overwhelming, particularly as he and his wife were expecting a child at the time.Maanas Lal spoke candidly about the psychological impact of documenting the incident, especially the episode where the girl attempted to abort the pregnancy herself and was later forced to reveal the truth due to severe bleeding. He admitted that there were moments when he considered seeking psychological help due to the mental strain of writing the book, and that he consciously worked on lighter writing alongside Mission Saudi to cope with the emotional burden. He concluded by stating that while the story itself may appear thin in structure, even the most ordinary stories can carry the most powerful lessons.Mission Saudi chronicles the gripping true story of India’s first-ever extradition of a sexual predator from Saudi Arabia— a landmark case that tested the limits of international law, diplomacy, and institutional resolve. Based on official case files and court judgements, the book narrates the tragic story of a ninth-grade student whose life was shattered by sexual violence, and the relentless pursuit of justice led by IPS officer Merin Joseph of the Kerala Police.The book offers readers rare insight into the workings of India’s justice system, the complexities of international extradition, and the human cost of systemic apathy. It stands as a tribute to the courage, integrity, and perseverance of those who fight quietly but relentlessly for justice.Authored by one of India’s most respected crime-writing duos, Mission Saudi is not just a police chronicle, but a powerful testament to empathy, conviction, and the enduring pursuit of justice.
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