A Mumbai court has issued a new bailable warrant against Member of Parliament Pragya Singh Thakur in connection with the 2008 Malegaon blast case. The court’s directive comes as part of ongoing proceedings, requiring Thakur to attend hearings related to her alleged involvement in the blast.
Background:
The 2008 Malegaon blast, which occurred in Maharashtra, resulted in the loss of six lives and left several injured. Thakur, along with others, has been implicated in the incident based on allegations of orchestrating the attack. Since the charges were brought, court proceedings have continued over the years, with several warrants issued to ensure attendance of the accused at various hearings.
Court’s Rationale:
The recent warrant was issued after Thakur failed to appear in court, despite previous directives. The judge expressed the necessity of adherence to legal procedures, underscoring that regular attendance by all accused is crucial in such cases. Issuing a bailable warrant is seen as a measure to secure her presence without ordering immediate detention, signaling the court’s intent to advance the trial process without undue delays.
Existing Measures:
The court had previously granted conditional bail to Thakur, with the stipulation that she must attend all hearings unless granted exemption. Bailable warrants serve as an intermediate measure, compelling attendance but allowing the accused the opportunity to comply without severe repercussions. Such measures aim to balance the legal process with the rights of the accused, particularly for those in public positions.
Conclusion:
The fresh warrant reflects the court’s effort to maintain procedural discipline while advancing the Malegaon blast case. Thakur is expected to respond to the court’s directive and attend upcoming hearings, as the judicial process seeks resolution in a case that has been ongoing for over a decade.