The cloak-and-dagger execution of 26/11 convict Ajmal Qasab caught the nation — and apparently even the prime minister — completely unawares. Even as umpteen conspiracy theories abound, MiD DAY has learnt that the hanging was carried out in a surreptitious manner following clear directives to the state home department from the union home ministry.u00a0According to a senior member of the state cabinet, Maharashtra Home Minister RR Patil shared this information with them during a meeting.

One of the prime reasons behind the secrecy was a possible reaction from terrorist groups. Attempts of rescue and retaliation were probable had they got wind of the precise date, timing and location, say sources.