Mumbai Police Initiate In Absentia Trial for 26/11 Terror Attack Accused
· India · Indian Express, NDTV, Bar and Bench
The Mumbai Police have begun the legal process to conduct an 'in absentia' trial against six Pakistani nationals accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The list of accused includes Lashkar-e-Taiba handlers Hafiz Saeed and Zaki-Ur-Rehman Lakhvi, alongside Sajid Mir, Abu Alqama, Asim alias Abu Qahafa, and Major Abdur Rehman Pasha. Special Public Prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam confirmed the trial court has issued a proclamation against these individuals, with further procedural steps expected following a formal report. This legal action is facilitated by the Bharatiya Nyaya Suraksha Sanhita 2023, which allows for trials against absconding offenders to prevent judicial delays. If convicted, the accused will face sentencing should they ever be brought into Indian custody.
Why it matters
This move marks a significant shift in the 18-year-old case, enabling the Indian judicial system to formally document the guilt of key conspirators despite their absence from the country. It serves as a permanent legal record that could impact future extradition efforts or international diplomatic pressure regarding the 26/11 attacks.
Read the original report — Indian Express
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