In a significant development, a special CBI court in Mumbai on Saturday acquitted all accused, including former Maharashtra minister Padamsinh Patil, in the 2006 murder case of Congress leader Pawanraje Nimbalkar. The court cited lack of sufficient evidence against the defendants.
Case Background
Pawanraje Nimbalkar, a prominent Congress leader from Osmanabad, was shot dead on June 3, 2006, at Kalamboli in Navi Mumbai. The case was initially investigated by local police but was later transferred to the CBI following allegations of political interference.
Key Accused
Padamsinh Patil, a former Maharashtra minister and NCP leader, was the prime accused. Others included his associate and former police officer. The prosecution alleged that Patil orchestrated the murder due to political rivalry.
Court Proceedings
The trial lasted over 15 years, with the prosecution examining numerous witnesses. However, the defense argued that the evidence was circumstantial and insufficient. The CBI court agreed, acquitting all accused due to lack of conclusive proof.
Reactions
Padamsinh Patil's lawyer expressed relief, stating that the verdict vindicated his client. The Nimbalkar family, however, expressed disappointment and indicated plans to appeal the decision.
The acquittal has sparked political debate, with opposition parties criticizing the CBI's handling of the case. Meanwhile, supporters of Patil celebrated the verdict outside the court.
