Supreme Court Stays Delhi High Court Order Granting Remission to 1993 Bowbazar Blast Convict

June 23, 2026 : The Supreme Court on Tuesday stayed the operation of a Delhi High Court judgment that had granted remission and directed the release of Md. Rashid Khan, a life convict in the 1993 Bowbazar bomb blast case that claimed nearly 70 lives and left over 100 people injured.

A Bench comprising Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and Sanjeev Sachdeva passed the interim order while hearing a Special Leave Petition filed by the West Bengal government challenging the Delhi High Court’s June 5 verdict. The Court also issued notice on the petition.

Appearing for the West Bengal government, Additional Solicitor General S.V. Raju argued that the Bowbazar blast was a serious terrorist act with devastating consequences. He informed the Court that around 70 people were killed, more than 100 sustained injuries, and two buildings collapsed in the explosion.

Taking note of the gravity of the incident, the Supreme Court stayed the High Court’s direction granting remission to Khan until further consideration of the matter.

The Delhi High Court, in its June 5 judgment, had held that Khan was entitled to premature release after spending more than 33 years in prison. The High Court relied on the reformative theory of punishment and considered his conduct during incarceration while granting relief.

Md. Rashid Khan was convicted under provisions of the Indian Penal Code, the Explosive Substances Act, and the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA) for his role in the 1993 Bowbazar bomb blast. He has remained in custody since March 1993.

With the Supreme Court’s interim order, Khan’s release will remain on hold pending further proceedings in the case. The matter is expected to be taken up for detailed consideration after responses are filed by the concerned parties.