Malegaon Blast Case: All Accused Acquitted After 17 Years Due to Lack of Evidence

Mumbai | July 31, 2025

After 17 years of legal proceedings, a special NIA (National Investigation Agency) court in Mumbai has acquitted all seven accused in the 2008 Malegaon bomb blast case, including BJP MP Pragya Singh Thakur and Lt Col Prasad Purohit. The court ruled that the prosecution failed to present conclusive evidence linking the accused to the attack, which had claimed six lives and injured over 90 people.

Key Observations by the Court

Suspicion not enough for conviction: The court underlined that strong suspicion does not replace proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

Motorcycle ownership unproven: The prosecution failed to prove that the motorcycle used in the blast belonged to Pragya Thakur. The chassis number had been tampered with, and she had reportedly renounced material possessions two years before the incident.

Contaminated crime scene: Lapses in barricading and handling of the blast site weakened forensic evidence.

Discrepancies in medical reports: The court found inconsistencies in injury counts and forged medical certificates.

No proof of RDX storage or bomb assembly by Purohit.

Conspiracy meetings unverified: Testimonies failed to establish credible links to planning meetings or terrorist intent.

UAPA charges dropped: In the absence of solid proof of conspiracy, charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act could not be upheld.

The judge emphasized that “terrorism has no religion” and moral perceptions cannot substitute legal standards. The court also ordered compensation of ₹2 lakh to the families of each deceased victim and ₹50,000 to the injured.

Public & Political Reactions

The verdict has triggered mixed reactions. MP Asaduddin Owaisi expressed disappointment, questioning who was responsible for the deaths if none of the accused were guilty. Pragya Thakur hailed the decision as a victory for “Bhagwa” (saffron), underlining the political and religious sensitivities involved.