Families of those killed and injured seek justice and question the timing of promotion after years of legal battle
NEW DELHI/MUMBAI — The Centre has approved the promotion of Shrikant Purohit to the rank of brigadier, following recent legal developments in the 2008 Malegaon blast case. The decision has triggered strong reactions among victims’ families.
Purohit, who was serving as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Army, had earlier been accused in the Malegaon bomb blast case. The incident, which took place in 2008, resulted in the deaths of six people and left nearly 100 others injured.
The approval for his promotion comes after the Bombay High Court acquitted all the accused in the case. However, the verdict has been challenged by the victims’ side in the Supreme Court, where the matter is now pending.
According to official sources, the development follows an order by the Armed Forces Tribunal, which had stayed Purohit’s retirement. He was due to retire on 31 March this year. The tribunal also considered his application seeking promotion and related service benefits.
In his petition before the tribunal, Purohit argued that the prolonged legal proceedings in the Malegaon case had adversely affected his military career. He maintained that the delay in the judicial process prevented him from receiving due promotions during his service.
His legal counsel told the tribunal that, despite a long and otherwise clean service record, he was overlooked for promotion because of the case. “The officer has suffered professionally due to circumstances beyond his control,” his lawyer submitted during the hearing.
Following these proceedings, authorities have now cleared his promotion to brigadier, stating that it has been granted as per due process within the army’s promotion system.
The decision, however, has raised concern among sections of the public, particularly families of victims who continue to pursue legal remedies. One relative of a victim said, “We are still fighting for justice. The case is not over for us. This decision has caused pain to many families.”
Another person affected by the blast said, “Six people lost their lives and many were injured. We respect the court, but the matter is still under scrutiny. Such steps should be taken with sensitivity.”
Officials have not commented on the timing of the promotion beyond confirming that it follows legal and administrative procedures.
The Malegaon blast case has remained one of the most discussed cases involving allegations of extremist violence. While the recent acquittal has changed the legal position for the accused, the ongoing appeal means that the final outcome is yet to be settled.
For now, the government’s decision to promote Purohit stands, even as the legal process continues and affected families await a final resolution.
