It’s been a year since a high-speed Porsche, allegedly driven by a 17-year-old in an inebriated state, killed two software engineers in Pune’s Kalyani Nagar. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of May 19, 2024, shocked the nation and sparked public outrage—yet for the families of Anish Awadhiya and Ashwini Costa, justice continues to be delayed.
❝A Year of Grief, A Year of Legal Limbo❞
While Om Awadhiya, father of one of the victims, continues to push for a fast-tracked trial, the courtroom has seen more delays than progress.
“We were told the case would be handled swiftly. But it’s been a year, and we’re still stuck,” Awadhiya told PTI, expressing how every day without justice only deepens the family’s sorrow.
The family of Ashwini Costa echoes similar pain, remembering her not just as a promising tech professional but as a daughter who had her entire life ahead of her.
Where Does the Case Stand Now?
According to Special Public Prosecutor Shishir Hiray, the bail pleas of all accused, except the juvenile’s mother, have been rejected so far. He emphasized that this was “not just a road accident,” citing allegations of tampering with forensic evidence, including the swapping of blood samples to mislead the investigation.
“The accused manipulated the judicial system by corrupting critical evidence like the juvenile’s blood reports,” Hiray said (PTI).
A discharge plea by Dr. Ajay Taware, former head of the forensic department at Sassoon Hospital, is currently delaying the framing of charges.
What Happened on May 19, 2024?
On that morning, a luxury Porsche Taycan allegedly driven by the intoxicated minor collided with the motorcycle carrying Anish and Ashwini, killing them on the spot.
Shockingly, the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) initially granted the boy bail within hours, directing him to write a 300-word essay on road safety. Following massive public backlash, the order was challenged, and he was moved to an observation home, though the Bombay High Court later released him.
Evidence Tampering and Police Suspensions
Investigations by Pune Police led to multiple revelations:
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The teen’s blood samples were allegedly swapped with those of his mother at Sassoon Hospital.
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This was reportedly facilitated by Dr. Taware, Dr. Shreehari Halnore, and hospital staffer Ghatkamble, with middlemen coordinating the cover-up.
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Blood reports of two other minors present in the vehicle were also allegedly tampered with, leading to the arrest of their fathers and others involved in the process.
In response, Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar suspended two officers from Yerawada Police Station for alleged misconduct and failure in handling the case initially.
Justice Delayed, Impact Unhealed
Despite the arrests and media coverage, for the victims’ families, time has stood still. They continue to call for strict punishment not only for the minor but also for all adults involved in allegedly covering up the crime.
“This isn’t just about our children anymore. It’s about ensuring no one else suffers because someone with power thinks they’re above the law,” said Awadhiya.
With framing of charges still pending and discharge applications being filed, the families now pin their hopes on the Maharashtra government and judiciary to fast-track the trial, ensuring accountability and closure.
