Lieutenant Colonel Prasad Shrikant Purohit’s promotion to the post of Colonel has sparked debate due to his history of being acquitted in the 2008 Malegaon blast case. The special NIA court, on July 31 stated that “mere suspicion cannot replace proof” while delivering the verdict, citing lack of reliable and compelling evidence.

Purohit was promoted after 17 years of legal battle which resulted in a career freeze from a Discipline and Vigilance ban following his arrest. While his acquittal was received with criticism, many have argued that the move appears rushed, given the serious allegations previously made against him.

Families of the blast victims have challenged the acquittal in the Bombay High Court, stating that it is inherently a “wrong and bad decision in law”. The High Court ha

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