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The recent Audi hit-and-run accident in Nagpur involving Sanket Bawankule, son of Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule, has ignited a political firestorm in the state. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Monday, saw Bawankule's car collide with several vehicles, leaving two people injured. While Bawankule was present in the car, he was not driving at the time of the crash. The driver, Arjun Hawre, was arrested and later released on bail.
The incident quickly escalated into a major controversy, with opposition parties accusing the ruling Mahayuti government, of which the BJP is a constituent, of attempting to shield Bawankule by blaming the driver for the accident. A case of rash driving and other offenses was registered based on a complaint from Jitendra Sonkamble, whose vehicle was hit by the Audi.
Fueling the controversy was a statement by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, who alleged that Bawankule had consumed beef at a bar in Nagpur prior to the accident. However, the police vehemently denied this allegation, stating that while Bawankule and his friends had dined at the La Horee bar, their bill clearly showed no beef was ordered. They confirmed that the group had consumed mutton and chicken dishes along with some vegetarian options and alcoholic beverages.
The accident has become a focal point in the run-up to the assembly polls, with opposition parties using the incident to criticize the ruling coalition's handling of the situation and allege favoritism towards the BJP leader's son. The BJP, on the other hand, has denied any wrongdoing and emphasized that the police are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident. The investigation is expected to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the accident and the extent of Bawankule's involvement.
The incident has raised questions about accountability and transparency within the political system in Maharashtra. It highlights the potential for conflict of interest when high-profile individuals are involved in legal proceedings. The outcome of the investigation will likely have a significant impact on the upcoming assembly polls, as both the ruling coalition and the opposition use the incident to further their political agendas.
Source: Audi hit-run case: Maharashtra BJP chief's son did not eat beef, say cops