2022 Khargone Violence: MP Court Acquits 11 After Prosecution Fails

A sessions court in Madhya Pradesh acquitted 11 men accused in the 2022 Khargone Ram Navami communal violence. Fourth Additional Sessions Judge Mukesh Nath ruled that the prosecution failed to establish the identity of the accused or prove the use of petrol bombs. Eight of the eleven eyewitnesses, including victims and complainants, turned hostile and failed to identify any individuals during the proceedings. This decision concludes a long legal battle following the unrest that erupted in the Bhatwadi locality during religious processions four years ago.

The case faced significant investigative hurdles, including a two-day delay in filing the First Information Report (FIR) and the lack of a test identification parade. Forensic reports contradicted police claims, finding no residue of inflammable substances like petrol or diesel in the seized evidence. The court specifically criticized the testimony of a key witness, describing it as unreliable due to contradictions regarding whether the rioters had their faces covered. Furthermore, the judge noted a 51-day delay in recording the statement of the prosecution's primary eyewitness without a valid explanation.

This acquittal brings renewed attention to the controversial demolition drive conducted by district authorities immediately following the 2022 violence. At the time, officials razed 16 houses and 29 shops in five localities, citing a policy to punish stone-pelters. The collapse of the prosecution's case now raises legal questions regarding the state's initial punitive actions before judicial verification. For the residents of Khargone, the verdict marks a pivotal moment in the search for accountability for the riots and the subsequent administrative crackdown on local property owners.