Mumbai: The Maharashtra government faces strong criticism for refusing a Police Clearance Certificate to Faheem Ansari, who was acquitted in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks case by the trial court, the high court and the Supreme Court. The refusal blocks him from basic employment, including driving an auto rickshaw, working in municipal bodies, or taking up private security jobs.
Faheem was earlier accused of preparing maps for the attackers. All courts dismissed the allegation, noting the maps were publicly available. Despite this, the state informed the Bombay High Court that intelligence agencies still consider him suspicious. Government lawyer Amit Palkar said Faheem is allowed to take up only work that does not require police verification.
Faheem questioned why the state continues to treat him like an offender after full acquittal. He told reporters that he wants to support his family with dignity. He earlier approached the court for permission to obtain a rickshaw badge. The state later repeated old accusations that courts rejected.
The government also sought an in-chamber hearing, saying the matter involves sensitive inputs. Muslim groups call the denial a clear example of suspicion placed on acquitted Muslim men. A community leader in Mumbai said the stigma stays even when courts remove it.
Legal experts argue that the state’s position undermines the authority of the judiciary. A retired judge said an acquittal is a declaration of innocence and must restore a person’s rights. Activists highlight the contrast between Faheem’s treatment and the support given to some Hindu accused in blast and riot cases.
Civil rights groups say the case tests whether an acquitted Muslim citizen will receive equal treatment under the law.
