The four individuals were facing prosecution under various sections of the Indian Penal Code for murder and criminal conspiracy, alongside charges under the stringent Unlawful Activities Prevention Act. The case stems from the tragic events of September 8, 2006, when four bombs tore through Malegaon town in Nashik district. Three devices exploded within the premises of the Hamidia Masjid and Bada Kabrastan immediately following Friday prayers, while a fourth blast occurred at Mushawarat Chowk. The coordinated explosions claimed 31 lives and left 312 persons injured, sparking a protracted and complex legal saga.
The investigative history of the case saw a dramatic shift in direction over the years. The state Anti-Terrorism Squad, which initially probed the blasts, arrested nine Muslim men in connection with the conspiracy. However, the National Investigation Agency later took over the case and claimed the explosions were the handiwork of right-wing extremists, leading to the arrest of Chaudhary, Singh, Narwaria, and Sharma. Subsequently, the nine Muslim men were discharged from the case by a special court.
In September last year, a special court framed charges against the four current accused, prompting them to move the High Court against the order. During the proceedings in January this year, the High Court admitted their pleas, noting that a prima facie case for interference was made out and stayed further proceedings before the trial court. In their petition, the four accused asserted that the National Investigation Agency had failed to produce any evidence against them. This decisive ruling by the Bombay High Court effectively halts the prosecution of these individuals, marking a significant turn in the quest for justice for the 2006 Malegaon victims.
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