2008 attacks: 49 convicted in India

India convicted 49 people yesterday over a 2008 attack in the western city of Ahmedabad that left dozens dead, in what perpetrators said was retaliation for earlier deadly communal violence.

The string of bombings killed 56 and wounded more than 200 others as shrapnel ripped through markets, buses and other public places in Gujarat state's commercial hub.

A group calling itself the Indian Mujahideen claimed responsibility, and said the act was revenge for 2002 religious riots in the area that left scores dead.

Nearly 80 people were charged but 28 were acquitted, prosecutor Amit Patel told reporters.

The remaining 49 defendants were all found guilty of murder and criminal conspiracy with sentencing to be issued on Wednesday, he added.

The marathon trial has lasted nearly a decade, with more than 1,100 witnesses called to testify. Proceedings were dragged out by procedural delays, including a legal battle by four of the accused to retract their confessions.