Delhi Court Acquits Father-Son Duo in Fatima Masjid Arson Case

Delhi Court Acquits Father-Son Duo in Fatima Masjid Arson Case

A Delhi court has acquitted a father-son duo accused of setting fire to Fatima Masjid and nearby homes during the 2020 North-East Delhi riots. Additional Sessions Judge Pulastya Pramachala granted them the benefit of the doubt.

The case stemmed from a complaint by Mohd. Munazir, who claimed he witnessed a mob attacking the mosque and surrounding houses after returning from prayers. He alleged that rioters broke windows, set the mosque ablaze, and threw stones and gas cylinders. Munazir reported that his home was completely destroyed, with gold ornaments and ₹1,50,000 cash stolen.

Charges were filed against the accused under various sections of the IPC, including rioting and robbery. Both pleaded not guilty.

While acquitting the duo, the court noted that all eyewitnesses turned hostile regarding the identification of the accused. The judge highlighted discrepancies in police testimonies, suggesting they might have been influenced by a predetermined mindset against the accused, who had been in custody since March 5, 2020. The court concluded that it could not safely presume their presence among the rioters during the events of February 25, 2020.

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