No bail for Colonel Prasad Purohit in 2008 Malegaon blast case

Observing that a prima-facie case exists against Lt Col Prasad Purohit, a prime accused in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, the special court for NIA cases yesterday rejected his bail application.

Purohit's bail application was rejected in the case for the second time. The court also said the report of a ‘court of inquiry' submitted by the Army (which Purohit's lawyer claimed backed his case) can be examined only during the trial. The judge also held that validity of application of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act against him too can be decided only during trial. Purohit had sought bail contending that NIA had dropped the charges under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) and that the sanction for prosecution obtained under the UAPA was defective.

He had not played any role in the blast, Purohit claimed, adding that he was in jail for the last seven years without trial. Purohit's wife Aparna said they would challenge the order in the Bombay High court.