Godhra, Gujarat: A court has sentenced Rafiq Hussain Bhatuk to life imprisonment in connection with the 2002 Godhra train burning case, concluding proceedings against an accused who had remained absconding for years before his arrest.
According to the prosecution, Bhatuk was part of the conspiracy related to the burning of a coach of the Sabarmati Express on February 27, 2002, an incident in which 59 passengers lost their lives. Investigators alleged that he played a role in arranging petrol used in the attack. These findings formed part of the prosecution's case before the court.
Police said Bhatuk remained on the run for nearly two decades after the incident. Investigators tracked him through intelligence-led surveillance before arresting him in February 2021. Authorities have stated that he was apprehended after returning to Godhra following a prolonged period of evading arrest.
Following the trial, the Godhra Sessions Court convicted Bhatuk on charges including criminal conspiracy to murder and sentenced him to life imprisonment. The judgment marked the conclusion of proceedings against one of the absconding accused in the case.
The Godhra train burning incident was one of the most significant criminal cases in recent Indian history and was followed by widespread communal violence across Gujarat. Over the years, multiple investigations and court proceedings have examined the roles of various accused, resulting in several convictions and acquittals.
The case continues to be regarded as a landmark in India's criminal justice system, with investigators emphasizing the importance of pursuing long-pending fugitives and ensuring that cases are brought to their legal conclusion regardless of the time elapsed.
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