Judgment Day: Malegaon Blast Acquittal Sparks Investigation Debate

In a significant ruling, a special court has acquitted seven defendants in relation to the 2008 Malegaon blast, raising critical questions about the investigation's thoroughness. The defense noted that the banned Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) had offices near the blast site, a detail initially glossed over by investigators.

Special NIA Judge A K Lahoti, through a detailed 1036-page judgment, highlighted lapses in the probe by Maharashtra's Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). The court noted that despite awareness of SIMI's proximity to the blast location, the ATS failed to explore this angle comprehensively.

The court acquitted the accused, including former BJP MP Pragya Singh Thakur, citing insufficient evidence to prove their involvement. The case, initially investigated by ATS and later handed to the NIA, had aimed to uncover the truth behind the explosion that killed six and injured 101 in Malegaon, 2008.

(With inputs from agencies.)