The Supreme Court today issued notice to the Italian Ambassador and restrained him from leaving the country without its permission. The apex court took exception to the Italian government's refusal to send back marines charged with the killing of two fishermen.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Altamas Kabir also issued notice to the two marines, Massimiliano Lattore and Salvatore Girone, who were allowed by the apex court to go to Italy to cast their vote in the elections there, after Italian Ambassador Daniele Mancini had given an assurance to send them back. The bench asked them to file their response by Monday.

The bench, also comprising justices A R Dave and Vikramajit Sen, passed the order after it was brought to its notice that the Republic of Italy has reneged on its assurance given to the apex court.

Attorney General G E Vahanvati brought the issue before the bench, saying that it is a breach of undertaking given to the highest court of the land and the government is extremely concerned about it.

The bench further said that if notice is not served to the marines, who are right now in Italy, then it will be served through the Italian Ambassador.

The bench posted the matter for further hearing on coming Monday after the AG pleaded for an urgent hearing on this issue.

The two marines were on board Italian vessel 'Enrica Lexie', when they shot dead two fishermen off the Kerala coast on February 15, last year.

External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid has said the Government is deeply concerned on the issue of Italian Marines. Talking to media outside parliament he said the Government will proceed with urgency and determination to ensure the dignity and primacy of India.

Mr. Khurshid did not confirm whether the Italian ambassador may be asked to leave, but said the Government will take whatever steps are necessary. He said the Government will have to keep the Supreme Court informed and work in coordination while factoring in a lot of issues.