Mumbai Teenager Faces Culpable Homicide Charge in Fatal Hit-and-Run Incident
In a tragic turn of events, Mumbai police have invoked a stringent charge of culpable homicide not amounting to murder against a 17-year-old boy following the death of businessman Dhrumil Patel (33). The incident, which occurred on February 5 near Somaiya College in Vidyavihar, has sparked legal and public outcry as the victim's family pushes for the minor to be tried as an adult.
Details of the Fatal Collision
The accident unfolded late at night when Dhrumil Patel and his wife Minal were returning home on their scooter after closing their shop in Parel. According to police reports, a speeding car, allegedly driven by the teenager from the opposite direction, rammed into the couple. The impact was so severe that both were flung several feet, sustaining multiple fractures and grievous injuries. While Dhrumil succumbed to his injuries after ten days of hospitalization, Minal remains in recovery at a private hospital.
Legal Actions and Family's Plea
Following Dhrumil's death, the Tilak Nagar police added Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), pertaining to culpable homicide not amounting to murder, to the FIR. Advocate Ruben Mascarenhas, representing Dhrumil's family, emphasized that the boy's history of reckless driving stunts, documented on social media platforms like Instagram, justifies the charge. The family has urged authorities to treat the teenager as an adult, noting he will turn 18 in just three months.
Police arrested both the boy and his father for allegedly permitting the minor to drive the vehicle. However, the Juvenile Justice Board granted bail to the 17-year-old due to his approaching board exams, a decision that has drawn criticism from the victim's relatives.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Investigation
This case highlights critical issues in juvenile justice and road safety in urban areas like Mumbai. The family's request for an adult trial underscores concerns about accountability in heinous crimes involving minors. As investigations continue, authorities are examining the boy's social media posts and driving history to build a stronger case. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar incidents are handled under India's legal framework.
