2006 Mumbai train blasts | Verdict shocking, govt will challenge it in SC: Devendra Fadnavis
The high court Monday set aside a special court verdict that awarded the death sentence to five accused in the 2006 Mumbai train blasts, and refused the Maharashtra government’s plea seeking confirmation of their sentences.
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The ATS chargesheet had held the banned Students' Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) responsible for the blasts, arresting 13 people and chargesheeting 30, including “Pakistani nationals”.Reacting to the Bombay High Court’s verdict in the 2006 Mumbai train blasts case, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday termed it “shocking” and said that the Maharashtra government will challenge it in the Supreme Court.
The high court Monday set aside a special court verdict that awarded the death sentence to five accused in the 2006 Mumbai train blasts, and refused the Maharashtra government’s plea seeking confirmation of their sentences. The high court acquitted all 12 accused in the case, including those sentenced to life imprisonment.
“For all of us this is a shocking verdict. Because the lower court has already given its verdict and it was all based on the chargesheet and other documents.I have not read the judgement yet. We will challenge it in the Supreme Court. I have already discussed it with the lawyers about it,” Fadnavis said.
Earlier in the day, BJP leader and state minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule had said that the state government would review the matter and consider filing an appeal in the Supreme Court.
“The High Court has delivered its verdict. At this moment, it would not be appropriate to comment on it. However, we will discuss with the Chief Minister whether there were any shortcomings on the government’s part. We will also explore whether the matter can be taken to the Supreme Court,” Bawankule had told mediapersons.
Senior BJP leader Kirit Somaiya said that justice must not be denied due to procedural lapses in investigation or legal handling.
“The decision delivered today has shaken us. Yes, there may have been gaps in the investigation, legal representation, or courtroom proceedings — but that cannot be a reason to deny justice to the victims and the people of Mumbai,” Somaiya said.
He urged Fadnavis to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and a strong legal panel to immediately move the Supreme Court.
Echoing similar concerns, Shiv Sena leader called for a re-investigation and an immediate appeal of the High Court’s ruling.
“Justice must be delivered, not delayed or denied. The government must appeal the verdict and re-examine the case to ensure the guilty are brought to book,” Nirupam said.
State minister and NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal echoed Bawankule on deciding the next legal step following the high court verdict.
With PTI inputs
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