The court seeks a response from the state government in the case, which has already seen several arrests under the National Security Act
INDORE/UJJAIN — The impact of the explosion that took place during a Muharram procession in Madhya Pradesh’s Ujjain district has now reached the high court, adding a legal dimension to a case that has already seen multiple arrests and action under the National Security Act (NSA).
The incident occurred on 23 June in Badnagar town of Ujjain district during Muharram observances. According to investigators, a vehicle was reportedly suspended at a height of around 40 feet with the help of a crane when an explosion took place, prompting authorities to launch an extensive investigation.
Police have so far arrested nine people in connection with the case. Authorities have also invoked the National Security Act against three of the main accused. The investigation is currently being carried out by local police with assistance from the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL).
The matter has now come before the Indore Bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court following the filing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking an investigation by either the National Investigation Agency (NIA) or the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
During a hearing on 9 July, a Division Bench comprising Justice Subodh Abhyankar and Justice Alok Awasthi asked the Madhya Pradesh government to submit its response. The court granted the state one week to obtain necessary instructions and fixed the matter for further hearing next week.
The PIL was filed by Sumit Hardia, District Convenor of the Hindu Jagran Manch. Through his counsel, Jayesh Gurnani, the petitioner argued that if offences under the Explosive Substances Act, 1908 are established, the case could fall within the category of a scheduled offence under the National Investigation Agency Act, 2008.
The petition contends that such circumstances would justify an investigation by the NIA. It also seeks action against those found responsible for the incident and calls for measures to prevent similar occurrences during religious processions in the future.
According to the plea, a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) should be prepared to regulate safety arrangements and administrative oversight during religious processions and public gatherings.
Representing the state government, Additional Advocate General Rahul Sethi sought time to obtain instructions from the authorities concerned. The court accepted the request and directed the government to present its position at the next hearing.
The case has attracted considerable attention because the incident occurred during Muharram, a significant period in the Islamic calendar when Muslims commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and the events of Karbala through religious gatherings and processions.
While police investigations are continuing, authorities have not yet publicly disclosed all details regarding the motive, planning or circumstances surrounding the alleged explosion. Investigators are examining evidence collected from the site, and forensic experts are assisting in determining the nature of the materials involved.
With the matter now before the high court, attention is expected to focus on whether the existing investigation remains with state agencies or whether the court considers the demand for a probe by a central agency.
