On July 21, 2025, nearly 19 years after the deadly 7/11 Mumbai train blasts that killed 187 people and injured over 800, the Bombay High Court acquitted all 12 accused, concluding that the prosecution utterly failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt.
The special division bench of Justices Anil S. Kilor and Shyam C. Chandak overturned the 2015 Special MCOCA Court convictions, which had sentenced five accused to death and seven to life imprisonment under the IPC, UAPA, MCOCA, and Explosives Acts.
The court cited unreliable witness testimonies and lack of conclusive evidence, ordering immediate release of the accused if not wanted in other cases. One accused, Kamal Ansari, had died in custody in 2021 due to COVID-19.
Key Findings: Evidence, Witness Credibility, and Acquittal
The High Court ruled that the prosecution’s case was fatally flawed, pointing out serious lapses in witness credibility, including identification parades conducted after unusually long delays and testimonies that were inconsistent or came suddenly after years of silence.
The court rejected the value of recovered evidence such as bombs and weapons, noting the failure to establish the type of explosives used in the blasts. Confessional statements were also questioned for being allegedly extracted under duress.
The bench observed it was “hard to believe” the accused were involved, leading to the setting aside of all convictions and refusing to confirm the death sentences and life imprisonments. During the hearing, the accused appeared via video link, and families of victims expressed mixed emotions.
Background: The Devastating 2006 Mumbai Train Blasts Case
On July 11, 2006, a coordinated terror attack targeted Mumbai’s Western Railway network during peak hours, with seven bombs exploding in commuter trains, resulting in 187 deaths and over 800 injuries. The lengthy investigation led to charges against 12 men, some linked to the Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI), and others from diverse professional backgrounds.
In 2015, a special MCOCA court convicted all, highlighting the cold-blooded nature of the attack and describing the accused as “merchants of death.” The case then entered a protracted appeal phase. The recent acquittal signals judicial scrutiny of the quality of evidence in terrorism cases and the complexities involved in securing convictions.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian deeply acknowledges the tragedy and trauma caused by the 7/11 Mumbai train blasts, which remain etched in the nation’s collective memory. While victims and their families deserve justice and closure, the foundation of justice must be unwavering proof beyond reasonable doubt.
The High Court’s acquittal reinforces the vital role of judicial fairness and the necessity for meticulous investigation practices in terror cases. Upholding human rights and due process is essential even in emotionally charged trials involving national security.
