Malegaon Blast Trial Enters Final Phase After 16 Years

Sixteen years after the Malegaon bomb blast, the trial is nearing its conclusion. Prominent accused include Lt Colonel Prasad Purohit and Pragya Thakur, with hearings focusing on final arguments. The case, initially led by ATS and later by NIA, involves charges under UAPA and IPC with numerous witnesses examined during the trial.

Sixteen years after a bomb blast in Malegaon, Maharashtra claimed six lives and injured over 100, the trial proceedings are in their final phase. The special NIA court is set to hear the concluding arguments starting Wednesday.

Notable among the seven accused facing trial under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and Indian Penal Code (IPC) are Lt Colonel Prasad Purohit and former BJP MP Pragya Thakur. However, proceedings against Sameer Kulkarni have been stayed by the Supreme Court.

The court wrapped up recording evidence on Tuesday with the final defense witness's examination. Next, Judge A K Lahoti will hear the closing arguments from both the prosecution and defense before delivering the verdict.