Pune Porsche Car Crash: Bombay High Court Orders Release of Accused Juvenile

On June 25, 2024, The Bombay High Court has ordered the immediate release of the minor accused involved in the tragic Pune Porsche car crash. The court deemed the previous remand orders as illegal and directed that the juvenile be handed over to the care of his paternal aunt.

Background

In the early hours of May 19, the 17-year-old juvenile allegedly drove a Porsche car at an excessive speed while under the influence of alcohol. The vehicle collided with a bike in Pune’s Kalyani Nagar, resulting in the tragic deaths of two software engineers, Aneesh Awadhiya and Ashwini Koshta.

Court’s Ruling

The High Court’s decision came after a habeas corpus plea sought the quashing of remand orders that had sent the minor to an observation home. The court emphasized that despite the gravity of the crime, the Juvenile Justice Act mandates treating the accused as any child in conflict with the law. Rehabilitation remains a primary objective, and the minor has already undergone sessions with a psychologist, reported The Hindu.

Senior advocate Aabad Ponda, representing the petitioner, argued that the minor’s liberty was infringed upon when he was remanded to custody. The court concurred, recognizing that while two lives were lost, the child himself was also traumatized.

Immediate Impact

Pending the final disposal of the plea, the court granted temporary release from the observation home. The minor will now be under the care of his paternal aunt, and the rehabilitation process will continue.

This ruling underscores the delicate balance between justice and compassion, recognizing the unique status of juveniles within the legal framework.