Lagatar24 Desk
Mumbai: In a major verdict on Monday, the Bombay High Court acquitted 11 out of 12 accused in the 2006 Mumbai local train bombings, citing lack of evidence. The division bench of Justice Anil Kilor and Justice S.G. Chapalgaonkar overturned the 2015 trial court convictions, stating the prosecution failed to present sufficient and credible evidence. The 12th accused died during the appeal process.
Seven coordinated blasts rocked Mumbai
On July 11, 2006, a series of seven bomb blasts occurred in Mumbai’s suburban trains during peak evening hours. The coordinated terror attack killed 189 people and injured over 700. The incident sent shockwaves across the country and was termed one of the worst terror attacks in India.
The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) arrested multiple suspects, and in 2015, the trial court had convicted 12 individuals — sentencing five to death and seven to life imprisonment.
Court’s decision raises tough questions for investigation
Now, nearly two decades later, the Bombay High Court has reversed those convictions, observing that the legal threshold for proof was not met. The acquittal has reignited scrutiny of the state’s investigative agencies and their handling of high-profile cases.
It remains unclear whether the Maharashtra government will appeal the decision in the Supreme Court, though sources suggest such a move is likely.
