Meanwhile criminals guilty of serious offences are to stay behind bars for a bigger proportion of their sentences.

ECONOMIST: This week's U-turn

As expected, his appeal was denied and Khodorkovsky, who was supposed to be free this year, was ordered to stay behind bars through 2016.

FORBES: Angry Words From Mikhail Khodorkovsky After Losing His Appeal

On Monday she was taken from her home to meet the chief minister of Punjab province to discuss her demand that the 12 stay behind bars.

BBC: NEWS | South Asia | Pakistan rape case releases delay