The Madras High Court has dismissed a petition by the Rajiv Gandhi Assassination Case convict Nalini Hariharan seeking her early release. She filed a habeas corpus petition saying that the Tamil Nadu Cabinet has recommended the premature release of all seven life convicts including her. She said the state Governor is not acting on the recommendation and that her continued imprisonment is illegal. The Division Bench comprising Justices R.Subbiah and R.Pongiappan in its verdict today has held that there is no merit in the claim that the convicts are illegally confined.<br />'' <br />'' Earlier, when the case came up for hearing, Additional Solicitor General Rajagopal argued that the state cabinet resolution sent to the Governor for their early release is of no value as the assassination case was handled by the Central agency, CBI. He said without the concurrence of the Union Home Ministry in cases involving central agencies, the convicts cannot be set free prematurely.<br />'' The state Public Prosecutor A Natarajan said the state government's role in the matter ends with forwarding the cabinet recommendation to the Governor. He said it is up to the Governor to take a final call in the matter adding the Government cannot insist on him in any way.<br />'' <br />'' The counsel for the petitioner said the state government's recommendation needs to be acted upon by the Governor.<br />'' <br />'' <br />