How Did Pragya Thakur Feel After 17 Years of Humiliation Following Acquittal in the Malegaon Blast Case?
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Synopsis
In a poignant moment in the courtroom, Sadhvi Pragya Thakur breaks down after being acquitted in the 2008 Malegaon blast case. Reflecting on her 17 years of humiliation, she shares her emotional journey, highlighting the stigma of being labeled a terrorist in her own country.
Key Takeaways
- Emotional courtroom reactions from the accused.
- Insufficient evidence led to acquittal.
- Historical context of the Malegaon blast.
- Compensation ordered for victims' families.
- Reflections on justice and accountability.
Mumbai, July 31 (NationPress) The atmosphere was charged with emotion in the courtroom as the special NIA court announced the acquittal of all seven defendants in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, which includes former BJP MP Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur and Lt Colonel Prasad Shrikant Purohit.
The court noted an absence of adequate evidence to support the charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), Arms Act, and several provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Upon hearing the verdict, Sadhvi Pragya Thakur, a prominent defendant, was visibly emotional in the courtroom.
With hands clasped in prayer, she addressed the judge, saying, “I stand before the court for the sake of humanity. I endured torture for 13 days. My existence has been shattered. I faced humiliation for 17 years. They labeled me a terrorist in my homeland.”
Expressing her gratitude for the acquittal, she added, “I cannot comment on those who brought me to this predicament. I survive only because I am a sanyasi. Saffron was wrongly associated with terrorism—today, saffron has triumphed. Hindutva has prevailed. Those who linked Hindutva with terrorism will never be absolved.”
Lt Colonel Prasad Purohit, another principal defendant present in court, also expressed his profound emotions and appreciation following the ruling.
“I start with ‘Jai Hind’. My allegiance lies with the Indian Army. I have dedicated my life to the nation and will persist in doing so. While investigative agencies as entities are not at fault, certain individuals within can be,” he remarked.
Reflecting on the lengthy struggle, he said, “For 17 years, I endured suffering. Even after securing bail, I continued to face hardships. What transpired was unjust. Some officials abused their authority, and we became their victims. I sincerely hope no ordinary citizen has to experience what we did. I am grateful to the court.”
The courtroom was crowded on Thursday as all seven accused, as required by the court earlier, were present for the verdict announcement. The court also ordered the government to provide compensation of Rs 2 lakh to the families of each of the six deceased and Rs 50,000 to every injured party.
The Malegaon blast took place on the evening of September 29, 2008, when an explosive device attached to a motorcycle detonated near Bhikku Chowk mosque in the communally sensitive area of Malegaon in Maharashtra’s Nashik district.
This attack, occurring during Ramzan and shortly before Navratri, resulted in six fatalities and over 100 injuries.
Point of View
I observe that the acquittal of Sadhvi Pragya Thakur and others in the Malegaon blast case raises significant questions regarding justice and the implications of prolonged legal battles on personal lives. It underscores the importance of accountability within investigative agencies while reflecting on the broader societal impact of such cases.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the verdict in the Malegaon blast case?
All seven accused, including Sadhvi Pragya Thakur, were acquitted due to insufficient evidence.
What did Sadhvi Pragya Thakur say after her acquittal?
She expressed her emotional turmoil and thanked the court, stating she had been branded a terrorist for 17 years.
What compensation was ordered by the court?
The court mandated Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured victims.
When did the Malegaon blast occur?
The blast occurred on September 29, 2008.
What were the consequences of the blast?
The attack left six people dead and over 100 injured.
