1993 serial blasts case witness seeks to upgrade security

In August, the witness had approached the court seeking directives to the police to provide sufficient security to him.

He had then said that, over the years, since he deposed in the case against the previous set of accused, his security was reduced. The court had then directed the police to provide adequate security to him.

The witness Tuesday approached court again and said that the situation remains the same.

The plea filed by him says that he learnt that a committee was formed following court’s orders in August which submitted a report to the authorities concerned but his security has not been upgraded.

The witness has also cited the murder of former state minister Baba Siddiqui earlier this month, stating that there is an urgent need to consider the threat and provide adequate protection.

The court has directed the police to file a reply and the plea is likely to be heard next on November 4.

On March 12, 1993, 12 bomb explosions took place in the city, killing 257 and injuring over 713.

Two sets of trials took place previously and the third trial against those who were arrested subsequent to the earlier trials is currently underway.

The witness had said, in his earlier plea, that he had played a crucial role in the probe and the previous trial and at that time, he was provided a security of about 25 guards but it was gradually reduced.

The witness’ plea said that he had received threats in 2007 and 2009.

The Maharashtra Witness Protection and Security Act, 2017, has provisions to provide protection to the witnesses and their relatives in criminal trials in serious offences.