Two convicted in 2008 Thane blasts case

Two persons accused in the 2008 blasts in the parking lot of Gadkari Rangayatan theatre in Thane that left seven injured, were convicted by a sessions court on Monday. Four other accused were acquitted due to lack of evidence.

Two persons accused in the 2008 blasts in the parking lot of Gadkari Rangayatan theatre in Thane that left seven injured, were convicted by a sessions court on Monday. Four other accused were acquitted due to lack of evidence.

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The court convicted Ramesh Gadkari, 55, and Vikram Bhave, 29, for voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous means, causing disappearance of evidence and causing damage to property. However, the duo was acquitted of more serious charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act such as attempt to murder and criminal conspiracy.

All six accused allegedly belong to the Sanatan Sanstha, a Hindu revivalist group.

Sessions judge NV Nhavkar said the evidence was “circumstantial in nature due to which it could not be proved beyond reasonable doubt that it was an act of terror”. The court will hear arguments on the quantum of sentence on Tuesday.