Shinde Sena leader suspended from party post 4 days after son's BMW hit and run case

Digital Desk: Shiv Sena, led by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday removed Rajesh Shah from his position as deputy leader amidst controversy surrounding his son Mihir Shah's alleged involvement in a fatal hit-and-run case in Mumbai. This decision follows Rajesh Shah's recent arrest and subsequent release on bail.

Mihir Shah, aged 24, was apprehended on Tuesday at a resort in Virar after evading capture for three days. He stands accused of driving a BMW that collided with a scooter, resulting in the death of a 45-year-old woman and injuries to her husband. Police sources indicate that Mihir admitted to switching seats with his driver and driving the vehicle at the time of the accident. He also confessed to fleeing the scene and attempting to alter his appearance by shaving his beard.

Rajesh Shah, a trusted associate of Eknath Shinde, was arrested on Sunday in connection with the incident. Authorities allege that he actively assisted his son in evading capture and instructed their driver to take responsibility for the accident. Rajesh Shah faces accusations of providing false information and tampering with evidence.

Mihir Shah has been charged with culpable homicide and is scheduled to appear in court today, where police will seek his remand for further investigation.

The hit-and-run incident has sparked widespread outrage, prompting Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to pledge stringent action against those implicated, regardless of their social standing or political affiliations. The Mumbai civic authorities have also taken action against the Juhu bar where Mihir Shah was reportedly partying prior to the accident, demolishing an illegally constructed section of the establishment.

The Shinde Sena, part of the ruling Mahayuti coalition, has faced criticism from the opposition over the handling of the case. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray has demanded that the BMW crash be treated as a case of murder, while questioning the delay in apprehending the principal accused. "Where was Mihir Shah hiding for 60 hours? The Chief Minister must answer," Thackeray emphasized.