Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole has called for a CBI investigation into the recent Porsche crash in Pune that resulted in the deaths of two individuals. Patole claimed that the son of a Maharashtra MLA was involved in the accident and accused the legislator of using his influence to cover up the incident. He also demanded that Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis resign from his position.
The tragic crash occurred on May 19, when a Porsche, allegedly driven by a 17-year-old under the influence of alcohol, ran over two IT professionals in Pune's Kalyani Nagar area. The case has sparked significant public outrage, particularly after the Juvenile Justice Board initially granted bail to the teenager, requiring him to write an essay on road accidents. This decision was later reversed, and the minor was sent to an observation home until June 5.
Patole emphasized the need for a CBI probe due to suspected political interference aimed at protecting the wealthy accused. He alleged that Fadnavis, utilizing his legal background, played a role in shielding the accused. Patole urged Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to clarify the situation and questioned Fadnavis' involvement, insisting on his resignation.
Additionally, Patole criticized the Sassoon General Hospital, likening it to a "five-star hotel for criminals." He expressed concerns about the rise in incidents of drunken driving and drug use amidst the state's severe drought.
Patole further alleged that the government system was manipulated to secure immediate bail for privileged individuals involved in such incidents. He cited other cases, including one in Fadnavis' hometown of Nagpur where two girls allegedly killed two young men with their car and obtained bail within 10 hours. He mentioned a similar case in Jalgaon, where efforts were made to protect the accused.
Patole also accused the BJP of enabling an illegal drug racket in Pune and Nagpur, claiming that illegal pubs in Pune had to be demolished following the car accident. He asserted that large quantities of drugs were being transported from Gujarat to Maharashtra, adversely affecting the youth.
