A Mumbai sessions court has granted bail to Valaji Raja Bhushan, the father of a minor involved in a fatal car accident in Ghatkopar that claimed the life of a businessman and left his wife critically injured. The tragic incident occurred on February 5, when a Kia Seltos SUV, allegedly driven by Bhushan’s 17‑year‑old son, collided with a scooter near Somaiya College, Vidyavihar. The crash resulted in the death of 33‑year‑old Dhrumil Patel and serious injuries to his wife, Meenal Patel.
Bhushan had been arrested under multiple charges, including allowing an unlicensed minor to operate a vehicle. However, during the bail hearing, the court highlighted that there was no conclusive evidence showing that he knowingly allowed his son to take the car that night. Witness testimony, including from the building’s watchman, indicated that Bhushan had left the car keys in his custody, and the minor took the vehicle without the father’s knowledge.
The victim’s family opposed the bail and alleged attempts at settling the matter with an offer of “blood money,” but the court noted that Bhushan was neither present in the car nor driving at the time of the accident. Additionally, the investigation against him was largely complete, supporting the court’s decision to grant bail.
The court imposed certain conditions as part of the bail, including restrictions on travel and directives not to influence witnesses, ensuring that the investigation and legal proceedings against the minor continue without interference.
Also Read: Mumbai: Three Teenagers Held for Murder of 14-Year-Old, Body Found in Vihar Lake
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