‘MATCH FIXING’: NIA FILES REPLY, PRODUCER SEEKS TO INTERVENE | 7 November, 2024

A special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court on November 6 adjourned to November 8 an application by a 2008 Malegaon blasts case accused to stay the release of Match Fixing: The Nation At Stake, after its producer sought to intervene and be heard as well. The film is allegedly based on saffron terrorism, said blasts accused Samir Kulkarni who also claimed that the film would raise questions over the fairness of the trial.

The producer stated that a similar plea is pending before the Bombay high court and which matter will be heard on November 11. The court did not pass any interim orders to stay the film’s scheduled release on November 15.

The NIA, which is the prosecuting agency, filed its say before special designated judge A.K. Lahoti. The special public prosecutor for the NIA submitted the reply which cited a 2019 order of the special court that restrained any debate or discussion on the subject of the trial until it concludes.

The NIA said, based on the CD, the film “resembles facts and circumstances of the case” and hence sought “appropriate orders” to be passed by the court “in the interest of justice”.