Mumbai Police Under Fire: High Court Slams 'Callous' Probe into Fatal Hit-and-Run

In a powerful and deeply critical judgment, the Bombay High Court has delivered a stinging rebuke to the Mumbai Police, exposing what it described as a "callous" and "lackadaisical" investigation into a tragic hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of a 20-year-old man. The court, visibly dismayed by the police's handling of the case, has not only mandated a fresh, thorough investigation but has also ordered a high-level inquiry into the officers whose negligence allowed critical evidence and justice to slip away.

The case revolves around the untimely death of Yashodhan Naravade, who was fatally struck by an unknown vehicle in February 2024.

His grief-stricken family, desperate for answers and accountability, had approached the High Court through a petition, highlighting the glaring omissions and delays in the police probe. Their pleas for justice resonated profoundly with the bench, which expressed its "shock" and "surprise" at the procedural irregularities that plagued the initial investigation.

Justice Revati Mohite Dere and Justice Shyam Chandak did not mince words, characterizing the police's actions – or rather, inaction – as "shoddy" and "callous." The court highlighted a litany of failures: crucial CCTV footage that could have identified the culprit vehicle was not promptly examined, the suspected vehicle was not seized in a timely manner, and witness statements were either recorded improperly or with significant delay.

These critical lapses effectively jeopardized the entire case, allowing the perpetrator to remain at large and elude justice.

The High Court's directive is unequivocal. It has ordered the Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) to personally conduct an internal inquiry into the conduct of the investigating officers.

This inquiry aims to identify those responsible for the "shoddy" probe and ensure accountability for the dereliction of duty. Furthermore, a completely fresh investigation into the hit-and-run case itself has been mandated, with the hope that renewed efforts will finally bring the perpetrator to justice and provide some measure of closure to Naravade's family.

This judicial intervention serves as a stark reminder of the vital role the courts play in upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is not merely a slogan but a lived reality, especially for victims of crime and their families.

The Bombay High Court’s strong condemnation sends a clear message that such negligence in duty, particularly in cases involving loss of life, will not be tolerated, and that the police's responsibility to conduct thorough and timely investigations is paramount.