Bandra Road Crash: Sessions Court Denies Bail to Megha Rawal
A Mumbai sessions court has rejected the bail plea of nutritionist Megha Rawal in connection with a fatal car crash in Bandra that led to the death of a boy named Ansh, citing her alleged mobile phone use while behind the wheel and fears of witness tampering.
The incident took place on the afternoon of August 30 when Rawal was returning home from a farmer's market. According to eyewitnesses and Ansh's family, Rawal was speaking on her mobile phone when her Innova Crysta struck the boy while he was crossing the road.
During the hearing, Special Judge AD Kshirsagar considered the prosecution's contention regarding the phone distraction and refused to accept the defence argument that the crash was a simple accident. The court affirmed that Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which pertains to culpable homicide not amounting to murder, is applicable in the case.
In the detailed order, the court noted that traffic is heavy across Mumbai and that a momentary lapse in concentration or negligence for even a split second can result in a crash. The judge observed that a person attempting to use a mobile phone on a busy street invites trouble, and knowledge of the fatal consequences of such driving can be attributed to the motorist.
The court also took serious note of concerns raised by Ansh's father regarding attempts by Rawal's family members to influence witnesses. An advocate representing the intervenor submitted a pen drive containing a video clip of a witness named Sandeep, who complained about tampering efforts.
Additionally, the court noted that the deceased boy's father had submitted an application to the Bandra police station on September 2 seeking police security for witnesses due to these alleged tampering attempts.
Rejecting Rawal's plea, Judge Kshirsagar stated that the investigation remains at a preliminary stage. The court concluded that, considering the serious nature of the allegations and the pending investigative requirements, it was not an appropriate case in which to grant bail.
