A major diplomatic row has been created between India and Italy after the Italian government went back on its promises and decided not to send its marines back, who are facing murder charges in India. That prompted the Supreme Court to take a tough stand on the Italian Ambassador, who had produced a guarantee on their return before the apex court.

Italian Ambassador Daniele Mancini cannot leave the country till further orders from the apex court. The Supreme Court also issued a notice to the Italian government and the marines accused in the Kochi fishermen killing case to file their reply by March 18.

The Supreme Court passed the order on a PIL filed by Janata Party chief Subramanian Swamy. While the Indian government may decide to expel the Italian Envoy, the latter tried to put up a volt face, saying “I will not leave this country till a competent authority makes me persona non grata”.