Pune: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday directed senior Pune Police officials to carry out a thorough investigation into a hit-and-run incident in which the mother of BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla was seriously injured.
The Chief Minister took note of the matter after the incident was highlighted on social media, assuring swift action and accountability. Officials from the Chief Minister’s Office confirmed that instructions had been issued to the state and city police leadership, and that Fadnavis personally spoke to Shehzad Poonawalla to enquire about his mother’s condition and wish her a speedy recovery.
The incident reportedly occurred on Tuesday evening when Poonawalla’s mother, a senior citizen, was out in Pune. Shehzad Poonawalla later stated that she sustained severe injuries after being struck by a car whose driver fled the scene immediately. He said she would require surgery due to the seriousness of her injuries.
“A few hours ago, an extremely disgusting human being ran his car over my mother deliberately, leaving her seriously injured, and ran away. She will be undergoing surgery very soon,” Poonawalla said, appealing for prayers and urging the police to ensure the accused is caught.
His brother, Tehseen Poonawalla, also shared details of the incident and released CCTV footage online. According to him, their mother was waiting near their vehicle while fuel was being filled when a car allegedly rammed into her before speeding away. “My mom, a senior citizen, went for a drive with my driver and executive assistant. Someone just hit her and ran away. It appears deliberate,” he said.
Tehseen later informed that he had spoken with senior Pune Police officials, including the Joint Commissioner of Police and the Deputy Commissioner of Police, regarding the progress of the investigation. Police sources said CCTV footage from the area is being examined to identify the vehicle and the driver involved.
Expressing gratitude to the Chief Minister, Shehzad Poonawalla said he had full confidence in the Pune Police. “I’m extremely grateful for your concern and intervention. We have full faith that the police will take necessary action strictly as per law,” he said.
