Mumbai: 17 years later, Bandra court acquits two in Khar break-in case

Representation pic

A Bandra court has acquitted two men accused of house-breaking and attempted theft in a Khar West residence, bringing an end to a criminal case that remained pending for more than 17 years. The court cited a lack of corroborative evidence and the complainant's decision not to pursue the prosecution.

Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate VU Misal of the 9th Court, Bandra, acquitted Dilip Yashwant Pashte and Anand Gopal Ravrang on May 29, 2026, observing that the prosecution had failed to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt.

Why accused were acquitted

>> No independent evidence linked the accused to the alleged offence
>> No stolen property recovered
>> The complainant's testimony did not establish theft or trespass beyond doubt
>> The prosecution failed to provide corroborative evidence

Bigger picture: Pendency in courts

The case highlights the continuing challenge of judicial delays.
Criminal cases pending in India

>> 3.80 crore criminal cases pending before trial courts nationwide
Criminal cases pending in Maharashtra

>> 42.75 lakh cases pending before trial courts
Source: National Judicial Data Grid, June 2, 2026

What the case was about

According to complainant Daulat Makhanmal Luthria, an intruder allegedly entered his Khar West residence during the night of October 29-30, 2008.

He reported:
>> A room adjoining the bedroom had been ransacked
>> The balcony glass door was broken
>> Household articles were found scattered
>> No valuables were reported missing
Based on the complaint, the Khar police registered an FIR and launched an investigation.

Charges against accused
The two accused were booked under the IPC for:
>> Lurking, house-trespass by night
>> Theft
>> Mischief causing damage
>> Attempt to commit an offence

Trial turning point
During the proceedings, the complainant submitted a written application stating that he did not wish to continue with the prosecution. He also told the court that no articles had been stolen.

Timeline

October 29-30, 2008
Alleged break-in at Khar residence

February 25, 2009
FIR registered by Khar police

2009-2026
Trial remains pending

May 29, 2026
Both accused acquitted