SBL blast accused approaches HC for anticipatory bail | Nagpur News

Nagpur: Kedar Panchputre, an accused in the Raulgaon SBL blast, has approached the Nagpur bench of Bombay high court seeking anticipatory bail. The High Court has issued a notice to Kalmeshwar Police and directed them to file their reply by March 30.The anticipatory bail application came up for hearing before Justice Mahendra Chandwani. Panchputre had earlier moved the additional sessions court, which rejected his plea on March 16, citing the seriousness of the crime.The explosion, which occurred on March 1 within the factory premises, claimed the lives of 25 workers and left several others critically injured. According to the prosecution, the incident was a result of grave violations of safety norms by the company.In his plea, Panchputre claimed that he was on leave at the time of the incident and had no direct role in the operations leading to the explosion. However, the sessions court observed that he was an employee associated with the company, and if his responsibilities were linked to safety or supervision, his role would need thorough investigation.Advocate Amol Mardikar appeared on behalf of the accused, while additional public prosecutor SV Kolhe represented the State Government. The matter is expected to be heard further after the police submit their response.