MUMBAI: Trial in Malegaon blast case noticed 39 witnesses flip hostile, retracting earlier statements and casting doubt on essential parts of the prosecution’s case. Since 2021, a number of witnesses showing earlier than the NIA courtroom denied prior testimonies, usually alleging coercion or fabrication by companies, notably the ATS.Acquitting all seven accused Thursday, choose A Ok Lahoti stated prosecution witness testimonies had been riddled with inconsistencies and contradictions. “Such discrepancies undermine credibility of prosecution’s case. The witnesses have retracted from their earlier statements given to ATS. Subsequently, neither conspiracy is proved nor conferences are proved,” the choose noticed.Of the 71 witnesses cited in opposition to Lt Col Purohit, round 20 didn’t assist the case.A two-wheeler agent, key to linking the bomb-laden bike, grew to become unsure throughout cross-examination. Whereas he initially advised police he offered a Hero Honda with a specific quantity, he later claimed he could not bear in mind it. The prosecution stated forensic proof backed his earlier model.An angadia staffer denied data of economic dealings involving accused Ajay Rahirkar. A number of witnesses, together with ex-army officers, alleged ATS compelled them to implicate Purohit. Prosecution argued retractions had been deliberate, aimed toward aiding the accused.