The Maharashtra government reappointed Ujjwal Nikam as Special Public Prosecutor for his ongoing cases, effective June 10. Congress leader Nana Patole has strongly opposed this decision, urging the government to rescind the order.
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MUMBAI: The Maharashtra government has reappointed advocate Ujjwal Nikam as Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) for all the cases he was handling prior to the recent parliamentary election. This decision was formalized through a notification that came into effect on June 10.
However, the reappointment has not been without controversy. Congress leader Nana Patole has voiced strong opposition to the decision. Addressing the media on Tuesday, Patole demanded that the state government revoke the order reappointing Nikam.
He argued-
“Having been a former BJP candidate, he now aligns ethically with their ideology.”
This statement reflects the concerns about potential bias that Patole believes could affect the impartiality required of a Special Public Prosecutor.
Ujjwal Nikam, a seasoned lawyer from Jalgaon, had resigned from his role as SPP in approximately 25 cases to contest the parliamentary election on a BJP ticket. He ran for the Mumbai North Central parliamentary seat but was defeated by Congress leader Varsha Gaikwad. Despite this setback, his reputation as a formidable legal professional remains intact.
Nikam’s legal career, which began in 1979, has been marked by his involvement in several high-profile cases. His first major public recognition came when he was appointed as the special public prosecutor for the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts case. This case was a turning point in his career, cementing his status as a leading figure in the legal community.
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Following this, Nikam was appointed SPP in numerous other high-profile cases that garnered significant public attention and demand for justice. Among these were the infamous Shakti Mills gangrape cases, which highlighted the severe issues of sexual violence in India. His role in these cases was crucial, and his effective prosecution contributed to the stringent punishments handed down to the perpetrators.
In addition, Nikam was instrumental in prosecuting the perpetrators in the Kopardi rape and murder case. This case, which involved the brutal assault and murder of a minor girl, sparked widespread outrage and demands for swift justice. Similarly, his involvement in the Ahmednagar rape and murder case further solidified his reputation as a prosecutor dedicated to securing justice in heinous crimes.
Despite the controversy surrounding his political affiliations, the Maharashtra government’s decision to reappoint Ujjwal Nikam as Special Public Prosecutor underscores his professional capabilities and the trust placed in him to handle sensitive and high-profile cases. The state’s decision suggests a belief in his ability to separate his professional duties from any political inclinations he might hold.
Ujjwal Nikam, a prominent figure in the Indian judicial system, built his reputation as a prosecutor who consistently demanded the strictest punishment for the accused. This unwavering commitment to justice earned him the trust and support of numerous victims’ families, who frequently requested his appointment as the prosecutor in their cases.
One of the pivotal moments in Nikam’s illustrious career was the trial following the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The trial, which captured international attention, saw the lone surviving terrorist, Ajmal Kasab, sentenced to death. This case was instrumental in solidifying Nikam’s reputation as a fearless prosecutor dedicated to securing justice for the victims of heinous crimes.
Before his resignation, Nikam was intricately involved in several high-profile cases, including those against Sayyed Zabiuddin Ansari, also known as Abu Jundal, an alleged Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative linked to the 26/11 attacks. Nikam’s role in this case was crucial, as it was part of his broader efforts to bring to justice those involved in one of India’s most devastating terrorist incidents.
In addition to the Abu Jundal case, Nikam was prosecuting other significant cases, such as the Kurar quadruple killings of 2011 and the murder of actor Laila Khan and her family. While the trial concerning Laila Khan’s murder has concluded, Nikam’s work on the other cases, which number around two dozen, is expected to continue as he resumes his duties post-resignation.
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Nikam’s approach to prosecution is marked by his thorough preparation and determination to ensure that justice is served. His ability to navigate complex legal landscapes and his steadfast dedication have made him a respected figure within the legal community and among the general public.
Throughout his career, Nikam has been quoted emphasizing the importance of justice and the role of the judiciary in maintaining societal order.
He stated-
“Justice should not only be served but should also be perceived as fair and transparent.”
This philosophy has guided his actions and decisions, ensuring that the victims’ voices are heard, and the guilty are held accountable.
His work in the 26/11 trial particularly highlighted his commitment. Nikam noted-
“The 26/11 trial aimed not only to punish the guilty but also to send a resolute message that terrorism will be met with zero tolerance.”
This statement reflects his broader vision of using the legal system to deter future crimes and uphold the rule of law.
Despite the conclusion of some trials, such as the Laila Khan case, Nikam’s journey as a prosecutor is far from over. His involvement in approximately two dozen ongoing cases emphasizes his enduring commitment to the judicial process.
