The main accused in the 2002 Godhra train burning case was denied temporary bail by the Gujarat High Court to meet his 95-year-old father, who is suffering from kidney-related health issues. Faruk Bhana, who was arrested in 2016, was sentenced to life imprisonment by the court.

Bhana had recently applied for temporary bail, citing his father’s deteriorating health. However, the prosecution argued that bail should not be granted, as other family members were available to care for his father. They also pointed out that Bhana had been granted an eight-day bail earlier this year, and therefore, no further bail should be allowed.

After hearing both sides, the High Court had rejected Bhana’s bail request.

Who is Faruk Bhana?

Faruk Bhana was the main accused in the incident where 59 Hindu pilgrims and Karsevaks were killed when a train was set on fire. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) in the case identified Bhana as the mastermind behind the incident.

After 14 years, Bhana was apprehended in 2021 by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS).

He was subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment for his involvement in the attack by the Gujarat High court.