Police Sub-Inspector and Woman Injured in Accidental Firearm Discharge in Rajkot
In a startling incident late on Monday night, a police sub-inspector (PSI) and a woman friend sustained bullet injuries from an accidental discharge of a service revolver at Samanvay Sulabh Apartments on University Road in Rajkot. The event has prompted a thorough police investigation and raised questions about firearm safety protocols.
Details of the Incident and Injuries
PSI N K Pandya, aged 32, and his 31-year-old woman friend were both injured when the service revolver accidentally discharged. According to preliminary reports from the hospital, Pandya stated that the gunshot occurred inadvertently while he was unloading his weapon at night. The bullet struck his right hand, causing a fracture, and then hit his friend in the side. Both victims were immediately rushed to a private hospital for urgent medical treatment, where doctors confirmed the severity of Pandya's hand injury.
However, conflicting accounts have emerged regarding the circumstances. West Division in-charge ACP B V Jadhav informed mediapersons that the accidental discharge happened while Pandya was cleaning his service revolver, adding a layer of complexity to the investigation. Senior police officials, including deputy commissioner of police Rakesh Desai and University police station in-charge inspector M L Damor, swiftly arrived at the scene after being alerted to ensure proper handling of the situation.
Police Response and Investigation
Following the incident, law enforcement authorities secured the flat, seized the service revolver and the fired cartridge as evidence, and called in a Forensic Science Laboratory team for a detailed examination. The police are yet to record the full statement of the injured woman and plan to question her after she is discharged from the hospital, pending her recovery.
Investigators have uncovered additional background information. The woman, hailing from Valsad, has been friends with Pandya, who is originally from Bhavnagar, for approximately one year. It was also revealed that Pandya is married but currently living separately from his family, which may factor into the ongoing inquiry. The incident has been officially registered at the University police station, underscoring its seriousness.
Departmental Actions and Career Context
In response to the event, ACP B V Jadhav announced that a departmental inquiry against PSI Pandya will be initiated and handed over to his competent superior officer. This inquiry aims to assess any negligence or violations of protocol related to the handling of the service weapon.
Pandya's professional background adds context to the situation. He is a direct police sub-inspector from the 2022–23 batch and was transferred to the Cyber Crime police station just 15 days prior to the incident, having previously served at the University police station. This recent transfer highlights the need for stringent safety measures during transitions and routine duties.
The accidental discharge serves as a critical reminder of the importance of firearm safety and proper training for law enforcement personnel. As the investigation progresses, authorities are focused on gathering all facts to determine the exact cause and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
