Bombay High Court Orders Maharashtra Government to Respond to 26/11 Acquitted Man's Employment Request

The Bombay High Court has instructed the Maharashtra government to respond to Fahim Ansari's petition. Ansari, acquitted in the 26/11 terror attacks case, is seeking a police clearance certificate to drive an auto rickshaw for his livelihood. Additional public prosecutor Mankunwar Deshmukh informed Justice Sarang Kotwal's bench that verification of Ansari's claims is necessary.

Deshmukh mentioned needing instructions from a senior officer before confirming facts and requested time to file an affidavit. The court agreed, scheduling the next hearing for April 3. In May 2010, Ajmal Kasab was convicted in the attacks, but Ansari and Sabauddin Ahmed were acquitted due to insufficient evidence. Their acquittal was upheld by higher courts.

Police Clearance Certificate Issue

In January, Ansari petitioned the High Court for a police clearance certificate to operate an auto rickshaw. His request was denied due to past accusations of being linked to a terrorist group. Ansari argues this decision violates his fundamental rights and is discriminatory. He insists he should be allowed employment without legal hindrances.

Ansari's plea highlights that his trial in the 26/11 case should not prevent him from job opportunities, especially after being cleared by all courts. He seeks a directive for authorities to issue the necessary certificate. After his 2019 release from jail, Ansari worked at a Mumbai printing press until it closed during the pandemic.

Employment Challenges Post-Acquittal

Subsequently, Ansari found employment at another printing press in Mumbra but faced low income. He applied for an auto-rickshaw license, which he received on January 1, 2024. However, he needed a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) to operate commercially. When no response came, he used the Right to Information Act to learn that his PCC was denied due to alleged ties with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

The prosecution claimed Ansari and Ahmed created city maps for attack conspirators in Pakistan. However, the sessions court noted better maps were available online when acquitting them. Despite this, Ansari's past accusations continue to affect his ability to secure employment.

Ansari's situation underscores ongoing challenges faced by individuals acquitted of serious charges but still hindered by past allegations. His case raises questions about balancing security concerns with individual rights and rehabilitation opportunities.