2006 Mumbai train blasts: Maharashtra approaches Top court to challenge Bombay HC acquittal of all 7/11 accused

Devendra Fadnavis

The state of Maharashtra has approached the Top Court challenging the Bombay High Court's judgement that acquitted all the accused in the 2006 Mumbai train blast.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday agreed to hear the case on July 24.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the state, told the bench led by CJI BR Gavai that this is a matter of urgent listing.

"It is a serious issue and requires urgent hearing," Mehta said, adding that the state has already filed the appeal against the High Court's judgement.

The bench noted that eight of the 12 acquitted accused have already been released from prison. Mehta confirmed that they have been released, yet 'the matter needs urgent hearing'.

Reacting to Bombay High Court's verdict, Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday called it very shocking. "The verdict of the Bombay High Court is very shocking and we will challenge it in the Supreme Court," he said.