The Bombay High Court has extended the tenure of Special NIA Judge A K Lahoti until August 31, allowing him to deliver the verdict in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, which is now in its final stages.
This comes just days after Lahoti’s name appeared in the high court’s annual transfer list, ordering his relocation to Nashik.
Transfer Stayed
Earlier this month, a notification had listed Lahoti’s transfer to a court in Nashik, effective June 9, following the court’s summer vacation. However, a fresh notification has now stayed the transfer, keeping him on the case until the end of August. The move is seen as a step to ensure continuity and a smooth conclusion to the long-running trial.
Case In Final Stages
The Malegaon blast occurred on September 29, 2008, when an explosive device strapped to a motorcycle detonated near a mosque in the town of Malegaon, located about 200 km from Mumbai. The blast claimed 6 lives and left over 100 injured.
High-Profile Accused, Stringent Charges
Seven individuals, including BJP leader and former Bhopal MP Pragya Singh Thakur and Lt Col Prasad Purohit, are facing trial for their alleged roles in the attack. The accused are being prosecuted under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) as well as the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Investigation
The case was initially investigated by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) but was handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in 2011 due to its complexity and national security implications. Since then, the trial has seen several delays and legal battles, but it is now approaching a final verdict.
Continuity In Justice
The extension of Judge Lahoti’s term reflects the judiciary’s intent to maintain continuity in such a sensitive and high-stakes case. With the trial at its concluding stage, his continued presence is expected to expedite the verdict and provide long-awaited closure to the victims and the nation.
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