27 people died in the blasts. (Representational)
Eleven years after three blasts claimed 27 lives in Mumbai, the trial in the case began before a special Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) court in Mumbai on Thursday.
A panch witness -- an official witness -- who was present when doctors removed splinters from the bodies of injured persons was the first to testify before special judge BD Shelke.
Special public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam appeared for the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS).
At least 11 persons are facing trial in the case.
Three powerful blasts ripped through crowded areas in Dadar, Opera House and Zaveri Bazar localities of Mumbai on July 13, 2011, killing 27 people and injuring 127.
The ATS claimed that Yasin Bhatkal, one of the founders of the terrorist organization Indian Mujahideen, was the mastermind of the blasts.
The accused are facing charges including criminal conspiracy, murder, attempt to murder, causing hurt under the Indian Penal Code besides offences under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and MCOCA.
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