Nagpur/New Delhi: In a major development, the Supreme Court of India on Monday acquitted Nagpur’s notorious goon Raju Bhadre in the sensational Pintoo Shirke murder case, clearing him of all charges after more than 23 years. The verdict was delivered during the hearing of a review petition, bringing a dramatic end to a long-drawn legal battle that had captured attention in both legal and criminal circles.
The bench, after a detailed examination of the evidence, witness statements, and procedural records, concluded that the prosecution had failed to establish Bhadre’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt. Consequently, the apex court set aside his conviction and ordered his release, declaring him “not guilty” of all charges.
Gold Rate
03 Oct 2025
Appearing on behalf of Raju Bhadre, Senior Advocate Siddharth Luthra, along with Advocates Praful Mohgaonkar and Shubhankar Dable, presented compelling arguments before the court. The defence team highlighted inconsistencies in witness testimonies, lack of corroborative forensic evidence, and procedural lapses during the investigation.
After hearing the submissions, the Supreme Court bench accepted the defence’s contention that the conviction was not sustainable in law.
The case dates back to over 23 years ago, when Swapnil alias Pintoo Shirke was brutally lynched inside the Nagpur District and Sessions Court premises on June 19, 2002, a shocking act that had sent ripples across the city and raised serious concerns over courtroom security.
Raju Bhadre was one of seven accused charged with Shirke’s murder. The case had since passed through multiple stages of trial and appeals, with Bhadre maintaining his innocence throughout.
City abuzz after verdict
Following the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling, discussions have reignited across Nagpur’s legal and criminal circles, with many terming the decision a significant precedent in ensuring justice through judicial review.
Legal experts note that the verdict underscores the Supreme Court’s role in correcting possible miscarriages of justice and ensuring that convictions are supported by credible and consistent evidence.
With this judgment, Raju Bhadre walks free, finally closing a painful chapter in one of Nagpur’s most widely discussed murder cases.
