Special public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam, who has led the prosecution team against Qasab, Ansari and Ahmed told newsmen the high court would give its verdict on Qasab’s appeal on Feb. 21.

The hearing of the appeal was heard by a two-member bench comprising Justice Ranjana Desai and Justice R.V. More amid high security.

According to a legal expert, Qasab will try to explore all legal avenues to delay his execution. He may go for a second appeal at the Supreme Court, which may prolong the legal battle. “With all the options legally available to him, Qasab may get a long reprieve from execution, as the process of disposing of appeals at the Supreme Court and decision on a mercy petition by the president may take a long time,” Ishtiaq Ali of ALMT international legal firm said.