In a significant development nearly two decades after a violent communal clash erupted near the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi, an additional sessions court on Wednesday acquitted all 14 named accused in the case, granting them the benefit of doubt. The clash had originally occurred on September 2, 2005, when security personnel frisked Mufti-e-Banaras Maulana Abdul Batin and his followers as they were proceeding to the mosque for Friday prayers.
Court Ruling
Additional Sessions Judge Yajuvendra Vikram Singh delivered the verdict, stating that the prosecution had failed to prove the charges framed against the accused beyond a reasonable doubt. Consequently, all 14 individuals were acquitted. The court emphasized that the evidence presented was insufficient to establish their guilt, leading to the decision to grant them the benefit of doubt.
Background of the Case
The incident occurred when security personnel began frisking Maulana Batin and others near the Gyanvapi gate. Supporters of the Mufti opposed the security measures, and the dispute quickly escalated into a violent confrontation between two groups. The clash resulted in injuries and damage to property, prompting a police case against multiple individuals.
Initially, 16 individuals from both sides were named in the First Information Report (FIR), along with approximately 2,000 unidentified persons. The named accused included Shankar Giri, Mahant Rajendra Tiwari, Bhanu Mishra, Gulshan Kapur, Ajay Choubey, Jugnu Goswami, Shiv Seth, Mohammad Ejaz, former councillor Saleem, Sher Ali, Gulsher Ali, Shamser Ali, Irfan, Bachcha Musalman, Achhu Miya, and Haji Suleman. They were booked under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.
Deaths During Trial
During the lengthy trial, which spanned nearly 19 years, two of the accused—Shiv Seth and Haji Suleman—passed away. Their deaths were noted by the court, and the proceedings continued against the remaining accused.
Legal Proceedings
The trial saw numerous hearings and examinations of witnesses. The prosecution presented its case, but the court found that the evidence did not convincingly link the accused to the charges. The defense argued that the accused were falsely implicated and that the incident was a result of misunderstanding and overreaction by security personnel.
The verdict has been met with mixed reactions. While the acquitted individuals and their families expressed relief, others have questioned the outcome, given the seriousness of the allegations. Legal experts note that the benefit of doubt is a standard principle in criminal law when evidence is insufficient.
About the Author
Rajeev Dikshit reports from Varanasi, covering all beats across ten districts in eastern Uttar Pradesh. With specialization in political, legal, crime, and developmental stories, he also explores religious, cultural, sports, lifestyle, and business stories. He enjoys writing features and long-form pieces, delivering comprehensive and insightful coverage to readers.
