Navi Mumbai RTI Activist Critically Injured in Late-Night Shooting
In a shocking incident in Navi Mumbai, a 40-year-old Right to Information (RTI) activist, Amit Maurya, was critically injured after being shot near the neck by an unidentified biker. The attack occurred late on Monday night in the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Rahivasi chawl area of Sector 1, Airoli, around 11:45 pm.
Details of the Attack
Maurya was standing with his 44-year-old businessman friend, Sandeep Gavas, near their parked Multi-Utility Vehicle (MUV) when a helmeted biker arrived at the scene. The assailant brandished a pistol and fired four rounds in their direction. As Maurya and Gavas attempted to dodge the bullets, two shots hit the MUV's windscreen. The duo then ran for their lives, with the biker pursuing them and firing two more rounds.
One bullet pierced Maurya's neck near the left ear, causing critical injuries, while the other bullet aimed at Gavas struck a roadside wall as he evaded the attack. Gavas escaped unharmed in the incident.
Police Response and Investigation
Senior Inspector Balkrushna Sawant of Rabale police station confirmed that an FIR has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) section for attempt to murder and under the Indian Arms Act against the unidentified shooter. Assistant Commissioner of Police Rahul Dhas of the Rabale division provided a detailed account of the events, noting that the assailant's identity remains unknown due to the helmet obscuring his face in CCTV footage.
Police are actively scanning surveillance footage from the locality, but the bike's registration number is not clearly visible, complicating the investigation. The MUV involved in the incident had a symbolic Shiv Sena flag on its bonnet, as the vehicle owner is a party worker. This detail has led police to probe whether the shooting stemmed from political rivalry, business disputes, previous enmity, or revenge.
Victim's Condition and Background
Maurya was initially rushed to a local hospital in Airoli but was later shifted to Fortis Hospital in Mulund due to his critical condition. He is currently recuperating at the hospital. Known for using the RTI Act to address civic issues and illegal constructions in Navi Mumbai, Maurya's activism may be a factor in the attack, though the exact motive remains unclear.
A police officer privy to the case emphasized that the motive will only be confirmed once the assailant is apprehended. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities exploring all possible angles to identify and capture the perpetrator.
