Nagpur Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Rahul Madane addressed the media on Tuesday to dispel rumors surrounding a recent car accident involving an Audi registered to Sanket Bawankule, the son of Maharashtra BJP President Chandrashekhar Bawankule.
Contrary to earlier claims, DCP Madane confirmed that Sanket Bawankule was not behind the wheel at the time of the incident.
The crash occurred early Monday morning around 12:35 AM in the Ramdaspeth area, where the Audi collided with multiple vehicles, resulting in injuries to at least two individuals.
The DCP reported that the police have collected blood samples from both Sanket Bawankule and the arrested Audi driver, Arjun Haware.
Authorities have sent the samples for analysis to determine if either party was under the influence of alcohol.
Initial reports suggest that while Sanket Bawankule was present in the vehicle, he was not driving.
The DCP stated that medical results will clarify if Sanket drank alcohol, following preliminary observations that suggested possible intoxication.
The incident has sparked a political storm, with leaders from the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) accusing the state government of handling the case leniently due to the involvement of the BJP President’s family.
MVA leaders, including Sanjay Raut, Atul Londhe, and Sushma Andhare, have criticized the authorities for allegedly attempting to shield those responsible for the crash.
Londhe Accuses Authorities Of Cover-Up In Audi Case; Questions Value Of Common Citizens’ Lives
Congress Chief Spokesperson Atul Londhe alleged that the number plate of the Audi was removed and concealed, and that medical tests were not promptly conducted.
Londhe called for a thorough investigation and questioned whether authorities value the life of a common citizen less than that of a politician’s relative.
Shiv Sena (UBT) Accuses Nagpur Police Of Cover-Up In Audi Crash Case
Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders Raut and Andhare have accused the Nagpur Police and the state Home Department of attempting to save the culprits, demanding strict action against those involved.
Raut claimed that Sanket had swapped seats with the driver following the crash, while Andhare alleged attempts to dilute the case.
Both leaders criticized BJP Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Director-General of Police Rashmi Shukla for their roles in the matter.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on uncovering the full details of the incident and ensuring accountability for all involved.
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