Malegaon blast accused acquitted due to lack of credible evidence and procedural lapses
A Special National Investigation Agency (NIA) Court acquitted all seven accused in the 2008 Malegaon bomb blast case, including BJP leader Pragya Singh Thakur and Lt. Col. Prasad Purohit. The court found that the prosecution failed to provide credible and admissible evidence, citing lack of 'conscious possession' of the explosive device, absence of primary forensic analysis, and inadmissible confessional statements recorded under MCOCA due to procedural lapses. The verdict highlights significant failures in the investigation and raises questions about the integrity of the evidence presented, leading victims' families to consider an independent appeal.
Key Points
- All seven accused in the 2008 Malegaon bomb blast case, including Pragya Singh Thakur and Lt. Col. Prasad Purohit, were acquitted.
- The NIA Court cited the prosecution's failure to produce credible and admissible evidence.
- Key reasons for acquittal included lack of 'conscious possession' of the explosive device and absence of primary forensic analysis.
- Confessional statements recorded under MCOCA were deemed inadmissible due to procedural lapses and lack of 'application of judicial mind'.
- Victims' families intend to explore legal remedies by filing an independent appeal in the Bombay High Court.
Exam Facts
- The Malegaon bomb blast occurred on September 29, 2008.
- Accused included Pragya Singh Thakur and Lt. Col. Prasad Purohit.
- Charges were framed under IPC, UAPA, 1967, and Explosive Substances Act, 1908.
- Confessional statements under Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA), 1999, were rendered inadmissible.
Read it. Retain it. Recall it.
Get spaced-repetition flashcards, daily quizzes and offline access — free on Android.