Fri Sep 19 19:54:01 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The Maharashtra government has refused to issue a police clearance certificate (PCC) to Fahim Ansari, who was acquitted in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, due to alleged continued surveillance and suspicion of links to a banned terrorist organization, Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Ansari needs the PCC to obtain a badge to operate an autorickshaw and challenged the refusal in the Bombay High Court, arguing it is arbitrary. The court questioned the basis for the denial considering his acquittal. The government cited 2014 guidelines and a confidential report as justification. Ansari’s petition details his struggles to find employment since his release from prison and his need to secure an autorickshaw license to support his family.

**News Article:**

**Mumbai, September 20, 2025 -** The Bombay High Court is hearing a challenge from Fahim Ansari, acquitted in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, after the Maharashtra government denied his application for a police clearance certificate (PCC). Ansari requires the PCC to obtain a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) badge, necessary for driving an autorickshaw commercially.

The state government, represented by public prosecutor Mankhuwar Deshmukh, stated the refusal was based on a confidential report indicating that Ansari remains under surveillance and is suspected of connections to the banned terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Guidelines issued in August 2014 were cited as justification for the decision.

A Bench of Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Gautam Ankhad questioned the legal basis for denying the certificate, given Ansari’s acquittal.

Ansari’s petition details his post-prison struggles to secure employment, including the closure of a printing press where he worked due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He claims the denial of the PCC effectively deprives him of his right to earn a living. After securing a three-wheeler autorickshaw licence in January 2024, he applied for the PCC, only to be rejected. A Right to Information (RTI) request revealed that the rejection was based on his alleged involvement with LeT.

The case is adjourned until Saturday, when the petitioner’s attorney is expected to argue on the matter. The outcome could have significant implications for individuals acquitted of terror charges and their ability to reintegrate into society and secure gainful employment.

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