Pune techie’s killing: Hindu outfit leader, 19 more acquitted

The case dates back to the night of June 2, 2014, when Shaikh was allegedly attacked by youths associated with the HRS when he was returning home with a friend, Riyaz Ahmed Mubarak Shendure, after offering prayers at a mosque in Pune’s Hadapsar area.

The incident occurred during communal clashes in Pune following the circulation of objectionable pictures of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and late Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray on social media. An FIR was filed on the basis of a complaint filed by Shaikh’s brother, Mobin. “The assailants intercepted Mohsin and Riyaz at Satav Plot in Unnati Nagar around 9.15 pm. As Mohsin had a beard and a skull cap, and was wearing a light green Pathani shirt, they attacked him with hockey sticks and… a cement block on his head,” the complaint said.

While the accused, including Desai, were arrested, they were later released on bail.

“It is sad that my innocent brother was murdered and all the accused are acquitted. We will move the High Court for justice,” said Mobin.

Speaking to reporters after his acquittal, Desai said: “Instead of arresting the real murderers of Mohsin Shaikh, we were falsely implicated in the case because some elements wanted to frame us. There was no evidence.”