Pune: Accused in Dabholkar Murder Case Deny CBI Evidence as Trial Intensifies

Pune, 30th November 2023: The ongoing trial in the Narendra Dabholkar murder case took a significant turn as the accused, including Sharad Kalaskar and Adv. Sanjeev Punalekar, refuted the evidence presented by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Dr. Narendra Dabholkar, a prominent rationalist and founder of the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti (MANS), was murdered, and the trial has been closely followed.

During the court proceedings, the accused, including Virendra Tawde, expressed their stance that the evidence provided by the CBI is false. Adv. Punalekar submitted a written statement reinforcing the denial of the charges against them. Additionally, accused Virendra Tawde has requested the court to summon CBI Chauhan as a witness.

The trial involves multiple accused individuals, including Virender Singh Tawde, Sachin Andure, Sharad Kalaskar, Adv. Punalekar, and Vikram Bhave. Both Adv. Punalekar and Bhave are currently out on bail. The next hearing for this high-profile case is scheduled for December 19.

The court proceedings saw extensive questioning, with about 300 questions posed to the accused. Their responses mostly consisted of ‘no’ and ‘don’t know.’ The accused vehemently contested the CBI’s evidence, claiming it to be false. As the trial continues, the court has directed the defense to submit a list of witnesses.

So far, 20 witnesses have been examined by the CBI, including Kiran Keshav Kamble, Vinay Kelkar, and doctor from Sassoon hospital’s autopsy department. The testimony and cross-examination of these witnesses have been completed, marking a crucial phase in the trial.