Mumbai News: Special TADA Court Refuses Bail to Two Accused in 1993 Serial Blasts Case
A special court in Mumbai has refused bail to two key accused in the 1993 serial blasts case, citing the gravity and seriousness of the crime. VD Kedar, the special judge under the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA), refused bail to Munna Halari and Shoeb Qureshi on Thursday. The details of the two separate orders were made available on Friday.
The prosecution has alleged that Halari provided logistical support for the blasts by purchasing and concealing three scooters that were used for the transportation and planting of explosives. One scooter was planted at Zaveri Bazar, resulting in 17 deaths, 57 injuries, and property damage worth Rs 1.20 crore. The other scooters, planted at two different spots, were successfully defused by the police.
The two accused, who were absconding for more than 27 years, were arrested by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) in separate cases. Halari was arrested in January 2020, while Qureshi, against whom a Red Corner Notice had been issued, was brought back to India by Gujarat police in May 2022.
With regards to Halari, the court ruled that no case was made out to release him on bail since he was absconding for 27-28 years. On Qureshi, the court held there was no merit in his application as it found no change in circumstances since the rejection of his previous bail plea.
The 1993 Mumbai serial blasts were a series of 13 bomb explosions that occurred on March 12, 1993, in Mumbai, India. The blasts resulted in the deaths of 257 people and injuries to over 700 others. The attacks were planned and executed by a criminal network with links to the Dawood Ibrahim gang. The case has been one of the most significant and complex in India's judicial history, with multiple accused and a long-drawn legal battle.
The refusal of bail by the special TADA court underscores the seriousness with which the Indian judicial system views such acts of terrorism. The ongoing legal proceedings are expected to bring closure to the families of the victims and ensure justice for the affected communities.
The court's decision is a significant step in the ongoing legal process, which has seen multiple ups and downs over the years. The prosecution and the families of the victims are hopeful that the trial will conclude with a fair and just outcome. The Indian government and law enforcement agencies continue to work towards ensuring that all those involved in the blasts are brought to justice, regardless of the time that has passed since the incident.
