Khalapur police in Raigad have confirmed that the SUV driver who grazed the car of NCP (SP) Member of Parliament (MP) Supriya Sule near the Madap tunnel on the Mumbai-Pune expressway on Saturday was not under the influence of alcohol, as per his medical test results. Sachin Pawar, senior inspector of Khalapur police station, stated, 'After the medical test of the accused SUV driver, identified as Divyesh Sheth (24), at the Chowk Primary Health Care (PHC) centre in Khalapur, prima facie it has been reported that he was not under the influence of alcohol. However, the opinion has been kept reserved. Hence, the accused's blood sample will be sent to Kalina Forensic Science Laboratory (KFSL) for a chemical analysis report. As of now, we have not invoked the relevant section 185 of the Motor Vehicle Act for drunk driving.'
Legal Action Taken
Inspector Pawar further explained that the accused has been booked under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Motor Vehicle Act for rash and negligent driving. In accordance with legal provisions, the accused SUV driver has been served a notice under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to cooperate with the police investigation whenever summoned for inquiry and to remain present in court when required.
Details of the Incident
According to Inspector Pawar, the accused SUV driver was accompanied by four friends who had travelled from Gujarat for a picnic in Lonavala. The mishap occurred while they were returning to Gujarat. They had reached near the 29-kilometre mark before the Madap tunnel after crossing the Khalapur toll plaza. The SUV driver claimed that he lost control of his wheels while overtaking and grazed the car ahead.
MP Supriya Sule's Statement
Following the incident, MP Supriya Sule took to her X handle on Saturday, expressing her experience: 'While travelling from Pune to Mumbai today, I had an awful experience on the highway when a vehicle rammed into my car from the side due to reckless driving. Thankfully, everyone is safe. Incidents like these are a serious reminder that overspeeding and negligence on our roads can put countless lives at risk. I urge everyone to wear seat belts, remain alert, and drive responsibly so that our highways are safer for all.'
