Skip to main content

Lt. Col. Shrikant Purohit: Profile, Wiki, Family, Wife and Controversy



🧭 Introduction: Who Is Lt. Col. Prasad Shrikant Purohit?

Lt. Col. Prasad Shrikant Purohit is a decorated officer of the Indian Army’s Maratha Light Infantry and Military Intelligence. Born in Pune into a middle‑class Maharashtrian Brahmin family, he graduated from Abhinav Vidyalaya and Garware College. He was commissioned in 1994 from the Officers’ Training Academy, Chennai (NDTV).

Military Career & Intelligence Service

  • Early Years (1994–2002): Posted in Jammu & Kashmir, Purohit later joined MI‑25—the Intelligence Field Security Unit—tasked with monitoring threats along the India–Pakistan border (NDTV).

  • Counter‑Terrorism Operations (2002–2005): Played key roles in several intelligence missions in J&K, working closely with elite MI units (NDTV).

  • Pune & Madhya Pradesh Postings: Later served at a liaison unit in Deolali near Nashik, and learned Arabic in Panchmarhi at an Army Education Corps training centre (NDTV).

The Malegaon Bomb Blast Case (September 2008)

Tragic Incident

On 29 September 2008, a bomb concealed within an LML Freedom motorcycle exploded near Shakil Goods Transport Company in Malegaon, claiming seven lives and injuring around 100 people (Hindustan Times).

Arrest & Charges

Investigations by Maharashtra’s ATS arrested Purohit, retired Major Ramesh Upadhyay, and Sadhvi Pragya Thakur—alleging they funded, procured RDX, organized meetings via Abhinav Bharat, and conspired in the attack (NDTV).

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) later took over the case in 2011.

The Defense: Undercover or Conspirator?

Purohit staunchly denied all charges:

  • Undercover Intelligence Operator: He claimed infiltration of Abhinav Bharat was sanctioned, with full briefings to Army superiors (Hindustan Times, NDTV, Wikipedia).

  • Torture & Fabrication: In May 2024, he claimed ATS officers tortured him—breaking his right knee and coercing him to implicate senior RSS, VHP figures, and then-MP Yogi Adityanath (India Today). He also alleged witnesses were tortured and statements fabricated (Hindustan Times).

Court Proceedings & Bail

  • Dilutions in Evidence: Delhi witnesses began retracting earlier accusations, weakening the prosecution’s case .

  • Supreme Court Bail (2017): After nearly nine years in jail, he secured bail. The Court noted “material contradictions” between ATS and NIA chargesheets (Times of India).

  • Ongoing Legal Battle: In early 2023, both Bombay HC and the Supreme Court rejected his pleas for discharge, keeping the matter before the NIA special court .

Recent Developments & Controversies

  • May 2024 Torture Allegations: Purohit’s testimony claiming physical torture to extract false confessions made headlines in multiple outlets (OpIndia).

  • NIA Court Rebuttal: In court, Purohit publicly denied knowing Swami Aseemanand in the 2007 Mecca Masjid bomb case, diverging from earlier statements (Wikipedia).

  • Jurisprudence & Rights: His defense focuses on human rights violations, claim of fabricated evidence, and procedural issues—sparking debates on intelligence‑agency accountability.

Personality & Personal Profile

  • Family & Upbringing: Son of a bank official, from a middle‑class Maharashtrian family with strong values (NDTV).

  • Character: Described by peers as soft‑spoken, zealous, and fiercely patriotic .

  • Service Ethos: A 2012 Court of Inquiry featured testimony from 59 army officers supporting his undercover account and emphasizing his professional integrity (NDTV).

SEO-focused Subheadings & Engagement Hooks

  • “Lt. Col. Purohit Torture Allegations 2024”

  • “Malegaon Blast Case Timeline”

  • “Abhinav Bharat Inside Story”

  • “Army Officer Accused of Terrorism”

  • “Undercover vs. Conspirator Debate”

These keywords help boost search visibility while supporting readability and structure.

🔍 Top Interesting Facts About Prasad Shrikant Purohit

  1. First Armyman Booked for Terrorism: His name marked a historic low for the Army in 2011 (NDTV).

  2. Nine Years in Custody: Spent nearly a decade in Taloja prison before bail released him in August 2017 (NDTV).

  3. Court of Inquiry Exoneration: 59 army witnesses backed his undercover operations .

  4. Political Pressure Allegation: Claimed Sharad Pawar’s “Hindu terror” remark predated the blast and set the narrative agenda (India Today).

  5. Torture Testimony: Reports allege he was beaten, knee broken, and coerced to implicate prominent right-wing figures (India Today).

🧠 FAQs About Lt. Col. Shrikant Purohit

Q1. Is Lt. Col. Purohit still serving in the Army?
No. Following his bail in 2017, he reported to Southern Command on suspension. His service status remains under military and legal review .

Q2. What is Abhinav Bharat, and what is his connection?
Abhinav Bharat, founded in 2006 by Ramesh Upadhyay and Purohit, aimed at forging Hindu Rashtra; ATS alleges it planned violence. Purohit claims he infiltrated it on military orders (Wikipedia).

Q3. Was he tortured during interrogation?
Yes. Purohit alleged ATS officers tortured him, broke his knee, and forced false confessions in May 2024 submissions (India Today).

Q4. What does the current trial status look like?
As of early 2025, his attempt to be discharged was rejected by HC and SC in 2023. The trial proceeds under NIA in a special court .

Q5. Could he return to active duty?
Return is unlikely until legal clearance. Meanwhile, Army remains cautious; no reinstatement until case resolution.

✅ Final Take

Lt. Col. Prasad Shrikant Purohit’s story is a bold indictment of modern India’s tangled relationship between national security, legal processes, and ideological politics. His high‑profile case has triggered debates over:

  • The blurring lines between covert intelligence duties and extremist ideologies

  • The ethics and legality of ATS interrogation methods

  • The state’s use of anti‑terror laws like UAPA and MCOCA

  • The Army’s duty to its personnel versus national security optics

Until judicial verdicts end this ambiguity, Purohit remains a polarizing figure—viewed by some as a falsely accused patriot, by others as part of a Hindu terrorist network.


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Sakshi Sawhney, IAS: Profile, Bio, Age, Husband and Family

Sakshi Sawhney, an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 2014 Punjab cadre, is a name synonymous with excellence, resilience, and public service. Renowned for securing an impressive All India Rank (AIR) 6 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2013, she made history as the first woman Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Patiala, Punjab. Her journey from a law graduate to a dynamic administrator reflects her dedication to societal welfare, particularly for children, women, and the elderly. Early Life and Family Background Born and raised in Punjab, Sakshi Sawhney hails from a family deeply rooted in public service, which profoundly shaped her values and aspirations. Her father, a retired Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer, instilled in her a sense of discipline and commitment to governance. Her mother, the principal of Deepalaya, a school dedicated to underprivileged children, fostered Sakshi’s empathy and drive to uplift marginalized communities. This nurturing environment...
Post a Comment
Read more

Ajit Hanamakkanavar: Profile, Wiki, Family, Caste and Wife

Ajit Hanamakkanavar is a prominent Indian journalist and news anchor, known for his outspoken style in the Kannada-language media. He currently holds a leadership position as Head of News and Programmes at Asianet Suvarna News , a popular regional news channel in Karnataka ( casemine.com ). Ajit initially gained attention through debate shows such as Left, Right & Centre , where his provocative questions and sharp commentary helped build his reputation as a bold and controversial figure ( casemine.com ). 📚 Early Life & Education Public records on Ajit's personal background, including birth year, hometown, and educational credentials, are limited. His rise in journalism appears rooted in local Kannada media, where he transitioned from reporting roles to anchoring and editorial responsibilities. 💼 Career Trajectory Regional Journalist – He began in Kannada-language television, gaining experience in reporting and anchoring for local audiences. Suvarna News Anch...
Post a Comment
Read more

The Relationship Between Rajiv Pratap Rudy and Preity Zinta: Exploring Their Familial Connection

The relationship between Bollywood actress Preity Zinta and Indian politician Rajiv Pratap Rudy has sparked curiosity among fans and media alike, primarily due to their familial ties and occasional public appearances together. This article delves into the details of their relationship, addressing whether Preity Zinta is indeed the sister-in-law of Rajiv Pratap Rudy, and explores any statements made by public personalities regarding their connection. We'll also ensure the content is SEO-optimized to provide valuable information for readers searching for insights into this intriguing bond. Who Are Rajiv Pratap Rudy and Preity Zinta? Before diving into their relationship, let’s briefly introduce the two individuals: Rajiv Pratap Rudy : Born on March 30, 1962, in Patna, Bihar, Rajiv Pratap Rudy is a prominent Indian politician affiliated with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). A four-time Member of Parliament from Saran, Bihar, Rudy has held significant ministerial roles, including Mini...
Post a Comment
Read more

Chetna Jhamb: Profile, Bio, Age, Caste, Husband and Family

Early Life & Education Chetna Jhamb, originally from India, developed an entrepreneurial spark early in life. Although details about her birthplace and educational background are not widely publicized, her LinkedIn profile highlights over 13 years of corporate and leadership experience across managerial roles( LinkedIn ). Her multilingual exposure and global outreach—evident from launching ventures in the U.S. and India—indicate a strong academic foundation and international exposure. Corporate Career & Business Ventures Director at Skanda HEI HR International Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru Chetna holds a leadership role at this firm that focuses on protective healthcare equipment like PPE and oxygen concentrators. Founder and Global Entrepreneur She launched her first business in the U.S. in 2016, followed by expansions in India. Operations & Media Leadership Managing multifaceted businesses spanning media, tech, and healthcare, she positions herself as an innovativ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Mausami Singh, Aaj Tak: Profile, Bio, Age and Family

Mausami Singh – Fearless Voice of Indian Journalism Introduction Mausami Singh is a prominent Indian journalist, currently serving as the Deputy Editor at India Today’s National Bureau and its Hindi news channel, Aaj Tak . Known for her sharp political analysis, unwavering courage, and fearless reporting, she has carved a niche for herself among India’s leading journalists. Her work balancing hard-hitting political stories and sensitive social issues has earned her both respect and widespread recognition. ( आज तक ) Early Life & Education Born and raised in New Delhi, Mausami is a private person when it comes to her personal background. Her academic journey, however, laid a strong foundation for her career. She graduated in journalism and mass communication from the Manipal Institute of Communication (MIC) around the 2004 batch—an institution renowned for producing media professionals of top caliber. During her college years, she demonstrated a natural flair for investigative stor...
Post a Comment
Read more

The Relationship Between Mansi Soni and Narendra Modi: Separating Truth, Myth, and Rumors

The alleged relationship between Mansi Soni and Narendra Modi, India’s Prime Minister, has been a subject of intense speculation, particularly following the 2013 “Snoopgate” controversy. This episode, centered around claims of illegal surveillance, sparked debates about Modi’s personal and political conduct during his tenure as Gujarat’s Chief Minister. While some narratives suggest a personal connection between Modi and Soni, others dismiss these as politically motivated rumors. Who is Mansi Soni? Mansi Soni is an architect from Gujarat, born into a Bhuj-based business family known for its jewelry enterprise, Hem Jewellers. Her father, Pranlal Soni, is a prominent businessman and Rotarian who played a role in Bhuj’s reconstruction after the 2001 earthquake. Mansi graduated from BMS College of Engineering in Bangalore in 1999 with a degree in architecture and later became a director at Ecolibrium Energy, a smart-grid company founded by her brothers, Chintan and Harit Soni. The company ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Arzoo Kazmi, Journalist: Profile, Bio, Age, Husband and Family

Arzoo Kazmi is a prominent journalist and human rights advocate from Pakistan, known for incisive political analysis and fearless reporting. Over the years, she has covered sensitive topics—from constitutional reforms to national security—and has been embroiled in controversies that highlight issues of press freedom and state pressure. Early Life & Education Background : Born in Pakistan, Arzoo developed a keen interest in journalism and public affairs early on. Education : Attended top journalism institutions (specifics kept private), where she honed her writing, analysis, and investigative skills. Entry into Media : Began as a researcher before quickly transitioning to on-screen reporting, earning respect for her clarity on constitutional and geopolitical matters. Career & Professional Highlights Rise as a Political Journalist Television & Digital Presence : Regularly appears on Pakistani and international news networks. She provides commentary on constitution...
Post a Comment
Read more

G. Venkataraman, IPS: Profile, Bio, Age, Caste, Wife and Family

Introduction G. Venkataraman, IPS (1994 batch, Tamil Nadu cadre) has assumed pivotal responsibilities in the state’s police administration, culminating in his appointment as the acting Director General of Police (DGP) in September 2025. Respected for his integrity and multi-dimensional policing expertise, his elevation has sparked both support and political debate—making his profile all the more compelling. Early Life & Education Born and raised in Nagapattinam , Tamil Nadu, Venkataraman joined the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1994. He augmented his credentials with a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Policy and Management from IIM Bangalore , which strengthened his administrative acumen alongside policing skills.( The Times of India ) Career Highlights & Policing Journey Throughout his career, Venkataraman has handled diverse and high-impact roles: Superintendent of Police (SP) in Perambalur and Salem districts. Deputy Commissioner (Law & Order) ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Rajhith Ibran: Profile, Bio, Age, Girlfriend and Family

Introduction In the glittering world of South Indian cinema, personal lives are often under wraps until one explosive reveal changes everything. Enter Rajhith Ibran , a Dubai-based businessman and former model now making headlines as he’s been publicly introduced by actress Nivetha Pethuraj —and soon-to-be fiancé, capturing hearts and curiosity alike. This article dives deep into Rajhith’s journey, his connection with Nivetha, and why this story is as captivating as a film script. Early Life & Education Although Rajhith Ibran has kept much of his early life private, it is evident that his background intersects the worlds of modeling, business, and perhaps multicultural exposure. Based in Dubai, he has roots in the modeling industry and has evolved into a successful businessman in hospitality. While specific details—like schooling or family—remain undisclosed, his refined public persona suggests a mix of global outlook and entrepreneurial spirit. Career Journey From Model to...
Post a Comment
Read more

Geeta Mohan, Journalist: Profile, Bio, Age, Husband and Family

Geeta Mohan is a name synonymous with excellence in journalism, particularly in the realm of international relations and diplomacy. As the Foreign Affairs Editor at India Today, part of the TV Today Network, she has carved a niche for herself as one of India’s most respected and followed journalists. With a career spanning over 15 years, Geeta Mohan has become a prominent figure in the media landscape, known for her incisive reporting, unbiased storytelling, and fearless coverage from conflict zones and high-profile summits. Early Life and Education While specific details about Geeta Mohan’s early life, such as her date of birth and family background, remain private, it is known that she hails from India and has always been passionate about storytelling and current affairs. Growing up in a country with a vibrant media culture, Geeta was likely influenced by the dynamic interplay of politics, society, and global events that shaped modern India. Her curiosity about the world beyond India...
Post a Comment
Read more