In 2002, then-Deputy PM L.K. Advani gave a ‘solemn sovereign assurance’ that Salem would serve no more than 25 years if extradited. Fast forward to 2026, and Salem’s lawyers claimed he’d already served 26+ years; but the Supreme Court just shut that down. Why? He was counting the same jail time twice; like double-dipping on a discount. The court reminded everyone: life sentences run concurrently, and remissions don’t magically shorten your ‘25-year clock’. This isn’t about forgiveness. It’s about legal precision. India’s promise stands; but only if the math adds up. Salem’s next shot? Wait until 2030. And if the government doesn’t act then, the court will make them. A rare case where bureaucracy meets underworld; and the law wins.