All Accused in 2008 Malegaon Blast Case Acquitted After 17-Year Trial
A special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court has acquitted all seven accused in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, including BJP MP Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur and Lt Colonel Prasad Purohit. The court cited a lack of sufficient and cogent evidence to prove charges under the UAPA and other acts. The 2008 blast near a mosque in Maharashtra killed six people and injured over 100. The verdict concludes a highly politicised, 17-year-long legal battle.
Unpacked:
The case was transferred to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in 2011 due to its sensitive and high-profile nature. The move followed controversies over the initial ATS probe, including allegations of evidence manipulation and political influence, prompting central oversight and a fresh examination of the evidence by the NIA.
The case became a focal point in Indian politics, introducing the terms "Hindu terror" and "saffron terror." It triggered debates over the nature of terrorism in India, with Congress leaders using it to highlight threats from right-wing groups, while BJP and RSS leaders condemned this narrative as politically motivated.
The court acquitted all seven accused due to a lack of sufficient and credible evidence. It found that prosecution failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the accused procured explosives, assembled the bomb, or owned the motorcycle used in the blast. Suspicion alone was deemed inadequate for conviction.
Both Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur and Lt Col Purohit were arrested in 2008 and spent several years in jail before being granted bail. The prolonged legal process significantly affected their personal and professional lives, with Purohit suspended from the army and Thakur facing health issues. Both later entered public life, with Thakur becoming a BJP MP.