Gujarat riots update: SC grants bail to 8 convicts in Naroda Gam massacre case

The Supreme Court granted bail to eight men convicted in the 2002 Godhra train burning case in which 59 people were burnt to death when the S-6 coach of the Sabarmati Express was set on fire by a mob. Four other convicts were denied bail on Friday.

A special court in Ahmedabad cleared every defendant in the Naroda Gam massacre case, which involved the murder of 11 Muslims, putting an end to the trial in one of the bloodiest incidents of violence during the 20-year-long Gujarat riots in 2002.

A special court is expected to rule on Thursday in the case involving the Naroda Gam massacre of 11 Muslims during the Gujarat riots in 2002.

Former minister Maya Kodnani and Bajrang Dal leader Babu Bajrangi are among those facing murder, criminal conspiracy, rioting, and arson charges.

Union home minister Amit Shah testified for the defense, appearing to establish Kodnani’s alibi that she was at the Sola Civil Hospital at the time of the massacre.

The case was heard by seven judges. The case’s final hearing was held in front of three judges. The procedure was repeated following the retirement of two of the judges who heard the arguments.

Five of the accused, including Kodnani and Bajrangi, were also tried for the Naroda Patia massacre, which occurred three kilometers away on the same day as Naroda Gam. In 2012, Kodnani and Bajrangi were convicted and sentenced to life in prison. Bajrangi’s conviction was upheld by the Gujarat high court, but Kodnani was acquitted.