PANAJI
The Mercedes Benz, speeding recklessly at Banastarim, mowed down three innocent lives and left three others critically injured.
The case was swiftly transferred to the Crime Branch (CB) following accusations of bias against the Mardol police. However, this prompt action has not translated into results as one year later the nine-member team -- dismantled due to subsequent transfers -- is yet to file a chargesheet.
Initially, the delay was attributed to forensic reports and after that, the election code of conduct was the excuse. Now, sources revealed that the delay is attributed to the “final touches” being added to the investigation documents.
“The chargesheet is likely in two weeks. A water-tight case against the accused persons is being prepared, hence the delay,” the source stated.
The Mercedes Benz GA-07-K-7311 driven by the inebriated businessman Shripad Sinai Sawardekar aka Paresh on August 6, 2023 evening led to on-the-spot deaths and injuries.
Sources further said that Paresh, AAP President Amit Palekar and substitute driver Ganesh Lamani will face the charges.
The CB confirmed Paresh was driving during the accident, not his wife Meghna. Evidence includes blood samples from the SUV’s airbags and analyses of call and message data. Paresh was arrested eight hours after the accident amid allegations of a police cover-up due to the couple's influential status. The case saw the transfer of Mardol Police Inspector Mohan Gaude.
Palekar was also arrested for allegedly attempting to mislead the police by planting Lamani as a dummy driver. Both were released on bail the same day.
Initially, the CB cited pending reports from the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) in Pune and the State FSL in Verna as reasons for delay in completing the investigation.
Sources had earlier told The Goan that the chargesheet, though ready, awaits review by the Public Prosecutor before it can be officially filed in court.
In its May 24 edition, The Goan, quoting credible sources, reported that once the code is lifted, the chargesheet will be submitted to the PP for review and approval. However, no clear reason has been provided for the current delay.
