'Terrorist gang formed': Bombay HC refuses bail to Amravati vet in 2022 chemist murder case

MUMBAI: Bombay HC on Tuesday refused bail to a veterinary doctor from Amravati who was booked for the 2022 murder of a chemist who posted on a WhatsApp group in support of then BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma who made a controversial comment outraging the Muslim community.


Umesh Kolhe was murdered on June 21, 2022, around 9.30 pm while returning home on a scooter. Justices Ajey Gadkari and Shyam Chandak's order came on Khan's appeal against an NIA court's order that rejected his bail plea.


According to the prosecution, Khan was the only Muslim in the WA group comprising veterinary chemists and medical representatives.



On June 14, 2022 Kolhe posted Sharma's photo with a text message in support of her comment. Khan allegedly took a screenshot of the message and shared it on another WA group.


The judges said "prima facie, it appears a terrorist gang was formed by the accused persons" to avenge dishonour of their faith and strike terror among the general public. "...Such offences affect the very core and conscience of society, make it vulnerable and to live in constant fear,'' they added, dismissing Khan's appeal.