Husband of Worli Hit-and-Run Victim Moves HC for Murder Charge Against Accused
The Bombay High Court on Tuesday issued a notice to the Mumbai Police after Pradeep Nakhwa, the husband of Kaveri Nakhwa, who was killed in the tragic Worli hit-and-run case of July 2024, filed a petition alleging bias and negligence in the police investigation. Nakhwa seeks the addition of murder charges against Mihir Shah, the primary accused, citing deliberate and inhumane conduct during the incident.
Case Background
On July 7, 2024, Mihir Shah, son of a former Shinde Sena leader, Rajesh Shah, was allegedly driving his BMW at high speed under the influence of alcohol. Along with his friend Rajrishi Bidawat, Shah hit a couple riding a scooter at Worli Sea Face.
According to the petition, Shah’s vehicle struck the scooter, causing Pradeep Nakhwa to land on the car’s bonnet while his wife, Kaveri, became trapped between the front wheel and bumper. Shah continued driving at high speed, dragging Kaveri for over two kilometers until his car broke down. Pradeep was thrown off the vehicle during the ordeal.
Kaveri succumbed to severe injuries, with the autopsy report confirming the cause of death as shock and hemorrhage due to multiple abrasions caused by the dragging and collision.
Husband’s Allegations
Speaking to Hindustan Times, Pradeep Nakhwa described the incident as a deliberate act, stating, “They ran over us with their car, dragged my wife for a long distance, and brutally killed her. Six months have passed, but justice still feels distant. She was the breadwinner of our family, and no one can truly understand our pain.”
The petition, filed through advocate Dileep Satale, argues that Shah and Bidawat’s actions were deliberate and inhumane, justifying the inclusion of murder charges under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The plea highlights that Shah was aware of the fatal consequences of his actions but continued driving, disregarding Kaveri’s life.
Current Legal Status
The police have charged Shah with culpable homicide not amounting to murder, rash driving, and other related offenses. However, the victim’s husband contends that these charges are insufficient, given the deliberate nature of Shah’s actions.
Previously, the high court dismissed a plea filed by Shah and Bidawat challenging their arrest. When the Supreme Court showed reluctance to grant them relief, Shah filed a regular bail plea, which remains under consideration.
Court’s Directions and Next Steps
A bench of Justice Revati Mohite-Dere and Justice Dr. Neela Gokhale has directed the police to respond to the petition and posted the matter for further hearing on January 21, 2025.
Public Reaction and Broader Implications
The tragic incident has drawn widespread outrage, with calls for stricter action against reckless drivers, particularly those involving influential individuals. The case has highlighted the need for accountability and the importance of impartial investigations in ensuring justice for victims of road accidents.
Conclusion
As the case progresses in the Bombay High Court, Kaveri Nakhwa’s family continues to seek justice for the brutal incident that claimed her life. The inclusion of murder charges could set a precedent for handling cases involving gross negligence and deliberate actions on the road.
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