Fadnavis Visits Pune, Assures Justice in Porsche Accident Case; Pub Licenses To Be Reviewed
Reported by Sumit Singh & Tikam Shekhawat
Pune, 21st May 2024: Taking serious note of the Kalyani Nagar Porsche car accident which resulted in the deaths of two young IT professionals, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis visited the Pune Police Commissioner’s office today to assess the situation. Fadnavis emphasized the gravity of the incident, stating that no one involved will be spared. He also urged parents to understand that freedom does not mean arbitrary behavior.
Upon arriving in Pune, Fadnavis held a meeting with senior police officials to review the investigation’s progress, future actions, and preventive measures to avoid such incidents in the future.
Addressing reporters later, he noted that the police have charged the accused under Section 304 of the IPC, not Section 304A, indicating a stringent approach from the start.
“The accused in this case is 17 years and 8 months old. According to amendments made after the Nirbhaya case, minors can be tried as adults in serious crimes. The police included this in their initial application, but the Juvenile Justice Board did not heed this and ordered social reforms instead, causing public unrest,” Fadnavis explained.
The police have since appealed to the District Court, which has acknowledged the matter. Fadnavis assured that the law permits returning to the same court to reconsider the Juvenile Court’s order, and if necessary, an appeal can be made to a higher court. “We are confident that the Juvenile Justice Board will reconsider the bail order,” he added.
Fadnavis stressed that no one has the right to drink alcohol and drive, ply a vehicle without number plates, and endanger lives. He promised that justice would be served in this case.
He also ordered a review of bar licenses to ensure compliance with the conditions. Non-compliant bars will be closed, and stricter age and identity verification for bar entry will be enforced. Additionally, regular anti-drunk driving campaigns and checkpoints will be conducted.
Parents should ensure that freedom is not misused, Fadnavis reiterated. He also warned that any police misconduct would be addressed by reviewing CCTV footage, and officers found guilty would be dismissed.
Further action in this case will proceed according to the Juvenile Justice Board’s orders which are expected on Wednesday (May 22nd).
