An application by 13 accused, held for their alleged  role in the 7/11 serial train bombings which killed 187 commuters, seeking transfer of their case from a special court to another, was dismissed by the principal sessions judge on Thursday.

The accused would be tried in the special MCOCA (Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act) Court, which is presided over by Mridula Bhatkar. The court, which has already framed charges against the accused, is yet to begin the trial.

The accused have expressed their “lack of faith” in the judge, alleging that she is “biased” in favour of the prosecution and claim that they would not get justice. The defence lawyers have already withdrawn from her court on the same ground. Principal Sessions Judge A P Bhangale heard the arguments and finally dismissed the transfer application. He stated that his court had no jurisdiction to decide the matter.

 The judge advised the accused,  members of the banned Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) and Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba, to move the Bombay High Court.

The accused have not accepted the charges framed against them. They have also refused to sign the form, recording their plea.

They have been charged under various sections of the MCOCA and the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Cases  have also been registered against them under the  the Railways Act, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and Explosive Substances Act.