Should Those Accused of Conspiracy Clarify Their Role? Former MP Laxman Singh Reacts to Malegaon Blast Verdict
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Synopsis
In a recent statement, former Guna MP Laxman Singh emphasizes the necessity for transparency from those accused in the 2008 Malegaon blast case following their acquittal. He challenges the political narrative surrounding terrorism, asserting that all religions promote peace. This pivotal moment in the legal saga raises questions about accountability and the impact of such labels on communities.
Key Takeaways
- Laxman Singh calls for transparency from the accused in the Malegaon blast case.
- The court acquitted all accused due to lack of evidence.
- Singh rejects divisive labels like ‘Bhagwa Aatankwad’.
- All religions promote peace and non-violence.
- The case highlights the complexities of terrorism and accountability.
Guna, Aug 1 (NationPress) Former Guna MP Laxman Singh stated on Friday that individuals accused of conspiring in the 2008 Malegaon blast case should step forward and openly clarify their involvement, particularly after the court has cleared their names.
Singh highlighted the necessity of transparency following the court's decision.
In an interview with IANS, Singh remarked, “The court’s ruling is final and must be honored by everyone. However, if the accused now assert that they were wrongfully implicated, it is their duty to clarify their stance. Their prolonged silence may lead to misinterpretations that suggest the allegations were valid. Thus, a clear statement is essential.”
He also addressed longstanding political accusations regarding the term ‘Bhagwa Aatankwad’ (Saffron Terror), which some Congress leaders previously associated with the Malegaon incident.
“I do not endorse that label,” he asserted, distancing himself from party members who have employed the term in the past.
When questioned about Congress figures like Digvijaya Singh and P. Chidambaram, who have used the term in relation to terror incidents, Laxman Singh dismissed it entirely.
“I believe there is no such concept as ‘Bhagwa Aatankwad’ or ‘Muslim Aatankwad.’ These notions are unfounded and misleading. Terrorism transcends religious boundaries. Such terminology only reveals a distorted mindset and ought to be avoided,” he told IANS.
On Thursday, senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh reiterated that no religion should be associated with terrorism.
“Neither a Hindu, nor a Muslim, Sikh, or Christian can be labeled a terrorist,” he stated following the acquittal of all accused. “Every faith promotes love, goodwill, truth, and non-violence,” he remarked, stressing the universal peaceful message inherent in all religions.
A special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court acquitted all seven defendants in the 2008 Malegaon blast case on Thursday, including former BJP MP Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur and Lt Colonel Prasad Shrikant Purohit.
The court dismissed all charges against the accused under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), Arms Act, and the Indian Penal Code (IPC), citing insufficient evidence.
The blast occurred on September 29, 2008, when a bomb affixed to a motorcycle detonated near the Bhikku Chowk mosque in Malegaon, Nashik district, Maharashtra. The explosion, which coincided with the holy month of Ramzan and just days before the Hindu festival of Navratri, resulted in six fatalities and over 100 injuries in the communally sensitive region.
After almost 17 years of legal battles, the verdict was announced in a crowded courtroom with all accused present, per court order. The court also mandated compensation of Rs 2 lakh to the families of each of the six deceased and Rs 50,000 for every injured victim.
The trial was characterized by a lengthy legal process involving a case file exceeding one lakh pages.
Hearings concluded in April this year, with the court reserving its judgment on April 19. Given the case's complexity, the court required additional time to review all materials before issuing its verdict.
During the trial, the prosecution examined 323 witnesses, but 34 of them turned hostile, significantly undermining the prosecution's case.
The initial investigation was conducted by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), which arrested the suspects and filed the first charge sheet. However, in 2011, the investigation was handed over to the NIA.
Point of View
It is clear that the intersection of politics, religion, and justice remains a contentious issue in our society. The recent verdict in the Malegaon blast case not only raises questions about legal accountability but also challenges us to rethink the narrative surrounding terrorism and its implications on community relations. As we stand firm on the principles of justice, it is crucial to approach this topic with sensitivity and a commitment to truth.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the Malegaon blast case?
A special NIA court acquitted all seven accused in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, citing a lack of sufficient evidence.
Who were the notable figures acquitted in this case?
Among those acquitted were former BJP MP Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur and Lt Colonel Prasad Shrikant Purohit.
What did Laxman Singh say regarding the accused?
Laxman Singh urged the accused to publicly clarify their role in the case after their acquittal.
What is the significance of the term 'Bhagwa Aatankwad'?
Laxman Singh distanced himself from this term, asserting that terrorism should not be tied to any religion.
What were the consequences of the blast?
The blast resulted in six deaths and over 100 injuries in Malegaon, a communally sensitive area.
