Malegaon Blast Trial: Unraveling the Controversy

The ongoing trial of the 2008 Malegaon blast involves key defendants, including BJP leader Pragya Thakur. Defense claims suggest SIMI's involvement, alleging the group's local supporters hindered police investigation. The blast, which killed six and injured over 100, remains under scrutiny in a special court dedicated to NIA cases.

In a dramatic turn during the Malegaon blast trial, the defense claimed the banned Students' Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) might have orchestrated the 2008 attack. The trial, held in a special court for NIA cases, hears the final arguments as BJP leader Pragya Thakur stands as the prime accused.

Advocate J P Mishra, representing Thakur, argued that local inhabitants obstructed police access post-blast, potentially to protect SIMI affiliates. The explosion, which occurred near a mosque in Malegaon, killed six and injured over 100, thrusting the town into the spotlight once more.

With the prosecution producing hundreds of witnesses, including several who turned hostile, the defense also contends that a SIMI office near the blast site suggests involvement, despite the assigned motorcycle link to Thakur. As hearings progress, the trial continues to delve into the complex narrative of the event.

(With inputs from agencies.)