From Accused to Colonel: The Resilient Journey of Lt Col Prasad Purohit

In a significant development, Lieutenant Colonel Prasad Purohit, an officer previously embroiled in the controversial 2008 Malegaon blast case, has been promoted to the rank of Colonel by the Indian Army. This promotion, a regular career progression that was held in abeyance for years due to the protracted legal battle, marks a crucial turning point in his professional life.

Purohit’s journey has been one of immense legal and professional challenges.

He was initially accused in the Malegaon blast, a complex case that led to his suspension from service and a long period of investigation and trial. However, a major breakthrough occurred when the Supreme Court acquitted him of charges under the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA).

Following this acquittal, the Indian Army reinstated Lt Col Purohit into service, acknowledging his position as a serving officer.

His promotion to Colonel is not an extraordinary one but rather a normal advancement that would have happened in due course had his career not been interrupted by the legal proceedings. The Army has also taken steps to regularise his service from 2008, the year he would have typically been considered for promotion, which means he will receive all arrears in salary and seniority benefits for the period.

Despite this promotion and reinstatement, it's important to note that Lt Col Purohit continues to face trial under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

The legal complexities surrounding his involvement in the Malegaon blast persist, with the UAPA charges still being contested in court. This dual reality—a significant professional advancement alongside ongoing legal challenges—highlights the intricate balance between justice, military protocol, and individual careers.

His promotion underscores the Army's commitment to due process and the principle that an officer's career progression, while subject to legal scrutiny, should proceed when significant legal hurdles are cleared.

For Lt Col Purohit, it signifies a hard-won return to his rightful rank and a step towards reclaiming his full professional standing, even as the shadows of the past legal battles remain.