Former Mumbai police officer MN Singh revisits one of the most controversial chapters. 1993 Mumbai blasts investigation — arrest Sanjay Dutt — remembering the pressure, politics and legal complexities surrounding the case.Speaking on his YouTube channel Hussain Zaidi, Singh said the case stood out because “no film star had been arrested before this. It was the first time”, adding that the situation came with “so much pressure”, including from the actor’s MP father. Sunil Dutt.
“He admitted it…but said it was a mistake”
Singh revealed that the investigation revealed that Dutt was procuring arms during the 1993 riots, allegedly obtained through underworld operatives linked to Dawood Ibrahim and following the instructions of Abu Salem Anees Ibrahim.“When it came out during our investigation that Sanjay Dutt had taken up arms, it shocked everyone, including us,” Singh said.He added that Dutt had admitted possession during questioning: “He said, ‘Sahab maine liya, lekin galti ho gayi’.”The actor is said to have cited the threats during the riots as the reason for acquiring the weapons – a claim that has also been on the public record over the years.However, Singh pointed out that Dutt already had licensed weapons and police protection. “These were not for security,” he said, noting that the cache contained “AK-56 rifles, ammunition and hand grenades.”
‘What could I do? He was a star, so he left?’
Despite the shock factor, Singh said the law had to take its course. “What could I do? Should I let him go because he was a star? That was not possible,” he said.He also recalled repeated appeals by Sunil Dutt. “He would meet me and say, ‘Singh saab, bachaiye mera ladka… galti kar diya,'” Singh said, adding that the scale of the case made it impossible.
Case: From TADA charges to Arms Act conviction
For context, Sanjay Dutt was initially arrested in 1993 under TADA and the Arms Act in connection with weapons related to the Mumbai blasts.He was later convicted of illegal possession of weapons under the Arms Act—including an AK-56 rifle—and was eventually sentenced to five years in prison by the Supreme Court while he was charged with terror.
‘Those who provided arms were convicted under TADA…’
Without directly criticizing the judiciary, Singh expressed his displeasure with the outcome. “We registered the case under TADA… charges were filed, trial started,” he said.He noted that several others involved—including those who had handed over the weapons—were convicted under TADA. “Those who gave the weapons were punished under TADA… the one who took them was not,” he said, adding, “I don’t want to comment further.”
“There was pressure, but I didn’t give in”
Singh also revealed that several officials — including police and customs officials — were involved in the case, and that pressure was coming from “the top down”.“As an officer, it was my duty. In a big case, it is not in my nature to protect anyone,” he said, admitting that he did not allow interference in his rank.Ending on a cautious note, Singh added, “Whether there was pressure on the judge or not, I cannot say…those who understand will understand.”
