The Bombay High Court delivered a decisive ruling on July 10th, 2024, denying the discharge petition of 73-year-old Satyanarayana Rani, an alleged Naxal operative implicated in the devastating 2019 Gadchiroli IED blast. The blast tragically claimed the lives of 15 police personnel and one civilian.
Discharge Plea Denied Despite Previous Bail
A Division Bench of Justices Bharati Dangre and Manjusha Deshpande meticulously reviewed the evidence presented by theNational Investigation Agency (NIA) and concluded that there was sufficient prima facie evidence to warrant Rani’s continued prosecution. This ruling comes despite Rani being granted bail in the same case in July 2022.
A Heinous Act of Terrorism
The 2019 Gadchiroli blast, a grim reminder of the persistent threat of extremist violence, targeted a vehicle carrying members of the Maharashtra police’s Quick Response Team (QRT). The resulting casualties sent shockwaves across the nation. Rani, arrested in Hyderabad shortly after the incident, was accused of not only being a Naxal operative but also playing a pivotal role in the conspiracy leading to the blast.
NIA’s Opposition and Evidence Presented
The NIA vehemently opposed Rani’s discharge plea, asserting the existence of compelling evidence linking him to Naxal activities and the Gadchiroli blast itself. The court, after careful consideration, concurred with the NIA’s assessment, paving the way for a full trial to determine Rani’s guilt or innocence.
Charges Under Multiple Laws
Rani faces a litany of charges under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), and the Explosive Substances Act. These charges reflect the gravity of his alleged involvement in the Gadchiroli blast and the broader Naxalite movement.
The high court’s decision underscores the judiciary’s unwavering commitment to holding those responsible for acts of terrorism accountable. As the case progresses to trial, it will undoubtedly shed further light on the events surrounding the tragic 2019 Gadchiroli blast and the intricate web of individuals and motivations behind it.
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
