Acquittal in Malegaon Blast Case Highlights Investigation Loopholes

A special court acquitted all seven accused, including former BJP MP Pragya Singh Thakur and Lt Col Prasad Purohit, in the Malegaon blast case which killed six and injured 101 in 2008. The court, pinpointing investigation flaws, ruled that the accused deserved the benefit of doubt.

Judge A K Lahoti, overseeing National Investigation Agency (NIA) cases, highlighted the lack of ''reliable and cogent'' evidence in his judgment, casting doubt on the prosecution's ability to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt and questioning the applicability of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

The judgment noted that claims regarding the motorbike, allegedly used in the blast and linked to Thakur, could not be substantiated. The court's decision came after the accused arrived at the heavily guarded sessions court in south Mumbai.

(With inputs from agencies.)