The Special Court on Thursday rejected an application by 80 accused of Naroda Gam riot case, who had demanded that the trial be stopped as the investigation into it is still on.

Rejecting the application, Special Judge S H Vora said that the court has been appointed by the Supreme Court and if they have some reservations they should approach either the city metropolitan court or the apex court.

The application, filed by all the accused including former BJP minister Maya Kodnani and ex-VHP leader Jaydeep Patel on Wednesday, said that as the Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) is already investigating the case, the trial should not begin.

The application further stated that it would be difficult for the accused to defend themselves when the investigation is on.

Special Public Prosecutor Nigam Shukla, however, said the riot at Naroda Gam was committed by a mob of over 5,000 people and that the police have so far arrested just 80 people. The search is on for others so investigation in the case should continue along with the trial.Shukla said the Supreme Court has also recommended the same thing. Hearing of the application will continue on Friday.