Ujjwal Nikam Enters Rajya Sabha: Celebrated Public Prosecutor Who Fought for Justice in the 26/11 Case Begins a New Chapter in Public Life
In a significant move that reflects India’s commitment to justice, law, and national security, President Droupadi Murmu has nominated four eminent personalities to the Rajya Sabha, the Upper House of Parliament. Among the nominated members, Ujjwal Nikam, one of India’s most fearless and decorated public prosecutors, stands out for his landmark role in ensuring the death sentence for 26/11 terrorist Ajmal Kasab.
This nomination is not merely ceremonial; it is a symbolic acknowledgment of the unwavering fight against terrorism and the rule of law. Nikam’s appointment to Parliament represents the confluence of judicial integrity and national policy.
Face of Justice: The Man Who Brought Kasab to the Gallows
The name Ujjwal Nikam is synonymous with justice in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks—an incident that shook the conscience of the nation. In 2008, India witnessed one of the deadliest terror strikes on its soil. Among the chaos and loss, only one terrorist was captured alive — Ajmal Amir Kasab.
As Special Public Prosecutor, Ujjwal Nikam spearheaded the prosecution in this high-profile case. His detailed, rigorous, and emotionally charged arguments left no room for doubt. In 2012, Kasab was sentenced to death—a judgment seen as justice delivered to the nation. Nikam’s legal prowess and courtroom brilliance ensured that the prosecution stood firm against international scrutiny and domestic pressure.
More Than Kasab: 600 Life Sentences, 37 Death Penalties
While the Kasab trial brought Nikam national fame, his legal legacy spans far beyond. Over a career spanning more than three decades, Nikam has prosecuted over 600 criminals sentenced to life imprisonment and secured 37 death penalties. These numbers make him one of the most successful criminal lawyers in Indian legal history.
Known for his fearlessness, analytical depth, and command over criminal law, Nikam has built a reputation that few in the legal field can match. Both his colleagues and adversaries respect his courtroom strategies and his unwavering dedication to justice.
He has prosecuted in many sensitive cases involving organised crime, terrorism, gang violence, and heinous rape and murder trials.
Z+ Security and Padma Shri Honor
Given the sensitive nature of cases he handled—including trials against terror groups and underworld syndicates—Ujjwal Nikam was provided with Z+ security, the highest level of protection for civilians.
In recognition of his services to the nation, the Government of India conferred upon him the Padma Shri in 2016, India’s fourth-highest civilian award. The citation recognized his pivotal role in strengthening India’s criminal justice system and his fearless prosecution of terrorism-related cases.
From Courtroom to Campaign: His Political Debut
In 2024, Ujjwal Nikam took his first step into electoral politics. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) fielded him from the Mumbai North Central Lok Sabha constituency, a high-profile seat previously held by Poonam Mahajan.
Nikam, despite his clean image and towering public persona, lost the contest narrowly to Congress candidate Varsha Gaikwad by a margin of about 16,000 votes. However, his dignified campaign and strong public connect gained him widespread respect.
Far from being disheartened, this electoral experience marked a new chapter in his public service journey, now culminating in his nomination to the Rajya Sabha.
Diverse Nominations Reflect India’s Intellectual Strength
Ujjwal Nikam is one of four distinguished individuals nominated to the Rajya Sabha by the President of India. Along with him, the list includes:
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Harsh Vardhan Shringla, former Foreign Secretary and India’s ambassador to the US.
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Meenakshi Jain, eminent historian and academic.
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Sadanandan Master, a well-known social worker from Kerala.
This diverse group reflects India’s intellectual, administrative, historical, and legal excellence, now entrusted with contributing to national policymaking.
Symbol of India’s Anti-Terror Resolve
Nikam’s nomination is not just a personal recognition; it’s a strong political message. At a time when terrorism remains a global threat and India continues to face cross-border hostility, the elevation of the man who brought Kasab to justice to the Upper House is a reminder of India’s uncompromising stand against terror.
It also signifies the growing importance of domain experts in Parliament, bringing ground-level insights to legislative debates, especially on matters of law, national security, and criminal justice.
