The execution of 1993 Mumbai serial blasts convict Yakub Memon on Thursday is a "misguided attempt to prevent terrorism", Amnesty International India said.
Memon was hanged till death in a Nagpur jail after his mercy petition was dismissed by the president and various courts.
"This morning, the Indian government essentially killed a man in cold blood to show that killing is wrong," said Aakar Patel, executive director, Amnesty International India.
"This execution will not deliver justice for the 1993 Mumbai blasts. It is a misguided attempt to prevent terrorism, and a disappointing use of the criminal justice system as a tool for retribution."
He said authorities often find it convenient to hold up capital punishment as a symbol of their resolve to tackle crime, and choose to ignore more difficult and effective solutions like improving investigations, prosecutions and care for victims' families.
