Sanjana had last month pleaded with the Indian government to extradite her brother for a fair trial because 'being an Indian in the US, I know we won't get justice'.

Addressing a press conference in New Delhi on Aug 18, Sanjana Jon said: 'We have been subjected to racism. Even mass murderers are not treated that way, the way Anand is treated in jail.'

'All I want is that the government should intervene and do something to save my brother who has been suffering due to racism and discrimination towards Indians,' said Sanjana about her brother who she said was 'held in solitary confinement'.

Commenting on the verdict, designer Charu Parashar said: 'It is a very sad day for Anand's family, especially his sister, who has been fighting this lonely battle for years now. Fifty-nine years is a long period and for someone to be sentenced for such a long duration is a horrifying thought in itself.'

'Personally, I feel that Sanjana would be devastated at this moment. I don't know what her next step will be. But today is the day when a family has lost a son and a brother,' she added.

Designer Samanth Chauhan also doubted whether Jon got a fair trial and wanted the Indian government to intervene.

'I don't know whether the trial was fair or not. But its just a request from the design fraternity to the government to look into this matter and assure fair trial. Though the verdict has been declared, I am sure there must be something that can be done,' Chauhan maintained.

Bollywood singer Shibani Kashyap, well known for her song 'Sajna Aa Bhi Jaa', was also very disappointed with the verdict.

'I am very disappointed with the verdict. I know Anand personally and I truly support him. He didn't get a chance to prove his innocence. It is very shocking,' Kashyap contended.