Pune Porsche Crash: Maharashtra Congress calls for CBI investigation and Fadnavis' resignation

The Maharashtra Congress on Tuesday called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the recent Pune Porsche crash and demanded the resignation of Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The accident, which resulted in the deaths of two young software engineers, has sparked widespread outrage.

The incident occurred when a 17-year-old, reportedly speeding a Porsche Taycan after attending a party at two bars, collided with a motorcycle, killing both riders instantly. The teenager, who is the son of a prominent local builder, was initially released on bail with the condition that he would write an essay on road safety. This decision led to a public outcry, and the boy was subsequently sent to an observation home until June 5.

Further complicating the case, the boy's father was arrested for allowing his underage son to drive. Additionally, Dr. Ajay Taware, head of the Forensic Medicine department at Sassoon General Hospital, and Dr. Shrihari Halnor, the hospital’s chief medical officer, were arrested for allegedly manipulating the juvenile’s blood samples. The boy's grandfather was also detained for attempting to coerce their driver into taking the blame for the accident.

Congress's state unit chief, Nana Patole, criticized the handling of the case, likening the hospital to a "five-star hotel for criminals." Patole alleged that similar incidents have occurred in Nagpur, Jalgaon, and Pune, where efforts were made to secure immediate bail for privileged accused individuals through governmental influence.

Patole claimed the minor was accompanied by an MLA's son during the incident and highlighted another case in Nagpur, Fadnavis' hometown, where two girls were granted bail within 10 hours after a fatal car accident. He accused the BJP of fostering an environment where illegal activities, including drug rackets and unlicensed pubs, flourish in cities like Pune and Nagpur.

Following the accident, authorities demolished 36 illegal pubs in Pune. Patole alleged that the BJP has facilitated the influx of drugs from Gujarat into Maharashtra, thereby corrupting the youth.

The Congress leader called for transparency regarding political interference in the case, citing a letter that had gone viral, allegedly written by NCP MLA Sunil Tingre, recommending Dr. Taware for a superintendent position. Patole emphasized the need for accountability, pointing out the growing influence of the ruling party and the emboldenment of criminals, exemplified by a recent fatal attack on a tehsildar in Indapur.

The demands for a CBI investigation and Fadnavis' resignation underscore the political tensions and public dissatisfaction surrounding the case.