Senior advocate Ujjwal Nikam, recently nominated to Rajya Sabha by President Droupadi Murmu, shared new details about the 1993 Mumbai blasts and actor Sanjay Dutt’s involvement.
In an exclusive interview, the high-profile prosecutor reflected on his legal career. He revisited landmark cases, including the Mumbai serial blasts. He said that although Sanjay Dutt was legally guilty, he considered him a “simple and innocent man.”
Sanjay Dutt Could Have Prevented the Blasts, Says Nikam
Speaking to the media, Ujjwal Nikam said that Sanjay Dutt had a chance to alert police. He revealed a shocking detail: days before the 12 March 1993 blasts, a van loaded with arms arrived at Dutt’s residence.
According to Nikam, the vehicle carried hand grenades and AK-47 rifles. It was reportedly delivered by Abu Salem, a close aide of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim.
Dutt picked up some of the weapons but later returned most of them. However, he retained one AK-47. “Had he informed police back then,” Nikam said, “the Mumbai blasts could have been prevented.”
Ujjwal Nikam: ‘He Made a Legal Mistake, But I Still Believe He’s Innocent’
Nikam clarified that under Indian law, possessing illegal arms was a crime. Still, he stood by his belief that Dutt never intended to harm anyone. “He was fond of guns,” said Nikam. “That’s why he kept it, not for violence.”
The advocate also shared that he once told Dutt’s lawyer, “The AK-47 was never used.” However, he insisted that failing to inform the authorities allowed the terror attack to take place.
The Day Sanjay Dutt Was Sentenced: What Happened Inside Courtroom
Recalling the day Sanjay Dutt was convicted under the Arms Act, Nikam described a tense courtroom atmosphere. “He lost control after hearing the sentence,” he said. Dutt’s body language changed, and he appeared shocked.
Nikam observed the actor struggle emotionally as the verdict was announced. “He was silent and walked away,” he added.
The advocate shared that Dutt stood in the witness box while Nikam was nearby. That moment, he recalled, was emotionally heavy.
Nikam to Sanjay Dutt: ‘Don’t Let Them See You Break’
In a never-before-revealed exchange, Nikam recounted what he said to the actor in that moment. “Sanjay, don’t do this,” Nikam told him. “The media is watching you. You are an actor. If you look scared, people will think you’re guilty.”
Nikam advised Dutt to stay calm and assured him that there was still hope through the appeal process. Dutt responded with a quiet, “Yes sir, yes sir.”
Sanjay Dutt Acquitted of Terror Charges, Convicted for Arms Possession
The court did not find Dutt guilty under TADA (Terrorist and Disruptive Activities Act). However, he was convicted under the Arms Act for illegally possessing a prohibited weapon.
Later, the Supreme Court reduced his sentence from six years to five. Dutt served his time at Pune’s Yerwada Jail and was released after completing the term.
Legal Community Reacts to Nikam’s Statement
Nikam’s remarks have sparked conversations within the legal fraternity. While many acknowledge his legacy as a fearless prosecutor, his comments about Dutt’s “innocence” have triggered debate.
Some legal experts argue that emotional character assessments should not dilute the facts of a conviction. Others appreciate Nikam’s honesty in sharing the human side of high-profile trials.
Who Is Ujjwal Nikam?
Ujjwal Nikam is one of India’s most prominent public prosecutors. He has handled several major cases, including:
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The 1993 Mumbai serial blasts
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The 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks
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The Pramod Mahajan murder case
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The 2003 Gateway of India twin blasts
He is known for securing convictions in sensitive terror and organized crime trials. His career has been closely followed in India’s legal and political circles.
Rajya Sabha Nomination: A New Chapter in Nikam’s Life
Ujjwal Nikam will now take oath as a member of the Rajya Sabha. His nomination comes as recognition of decades of service to the Indian legal system.
His entry into Parliament is expected to strengthen legislative discussions on law and justice. Nikam has expressed commitment to working on reforms in criminal law and national security.
Impact of Nikam’s Remarks on Public Perception of Sanjay Dutt
Sanjay Dutt’s past has long followed him, despite his successful Bollywood comeback. Nikam’s statements have reignited curiosity around the 1993 case.
For many fans, hearing a top prosecutor call Dutt “innocent at heart” adds a new layer of understanding. While the law may have judged him guilty, public memory may now hold room for compassion.
Ujjwal Nikam’s remarks highlight the human dimensions behind court verdicts. He didn’t deny Dutt’s legal error but emphasized his personal impression of the actor’s character.
In the world of justice, facts decide guilt, but emotions often shape memory. Nikam, now a lawmaker himself, stands as someone who’s seen both sides — courtroom reality and personal redemption.
As India watches him enter the Rajya Sabha, one thing is clear: Ujjwal Nikam’s voice will continue to matter in the nation’s most critical conversations on crime and justice.
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