Mumbai Police Face Scrutiny Over False Drunk Driving Case

A drunk driving case against 70-year-old Andheri resident Sharad Kadam has come under scrutiny after an inquiry found that the charge was added without scientific evidence. Kadam was booked by the Versova police on July 25 after his car brushed a female veterinary doctor.

The Cooper Hospital report returned a result of "NIL" alcohol content, which was later confirmed by a test at Nanavati Hospital on July 26. Kadam's family maintained that the accident was caused by a stroke, not intoxication. His nephew, Rohan Rathod, said that Kadam's right side has become paralyzed and that he was discharged from Nanavati Hospital on Monday night.

The ACP inquiry, submitted to DCP (North Zone-1) Purushottam Karad, found lapses in the police investigation. The Cooper Hospital doctor who gave police a note stating Kadam was drunk admitted to writing it after Kadam merely nodded, without conducting a blood test. Witnesses, including lawyer and friend Nitin P, said that Kadam was not intoxicated and suffered a stroke.

Initially, no blood samples were collected and the FIR was based solely on the doctor's note. Later samples also returned "NIL". Two traffic constables called to administer a breath analyzer test failed to get Kadam to breathe into the device before leaving for duty.

The DCP is expected to forward the report to the Joint Commissioner of Police (Law & Order) this week. MLA Ameet Satam confirmed that a departmental inquiry is warranted against officers involved in framing Kadam in an apparent false drunk driving case.

The case highlights the importance of scientific evidence in investigations and the need for police to follow proper procedures. It also raises questions about the treatment of accused individuals and the potential for false charges.

The incident has caused significant distress for Kadam's family, who have rushed from Canada to Mumbai to be with him. His wife said that doctors have not guaranteed recovery and that the family is going through a difficult time.

The Mumbai Police have come under scrutiny in recent times for various lapses and mishandlings. This case is likely to add to the growing concerns about the effectiveness and accountability of the police force.

In conclusion, the false drunk driving case against Sharad Kadam is a serious matter that requires immediate attention and action. The police must ensure that they follow proper procedures and rely on scientific evidence in investigations to avoid such incidents in the future.