Citing sudden lapse in concentration, Bombay HC grants bail to accused in Sea Link accident

The mangled remains of the vehicles. The Toyota Innova crashed into several vehicles on the Bandra-Worli Sea Link. (Express archive/Pradip Das)

Sarfraz had submitted that the accident took place as he suddenly lost control of the car and had himself suffered trauma to his head, causing internal injury. He was admitted to the hospital after the incident and was discharged seven days later, following which he was arrested and remained behind bars since.

Justice Milind N Jadhav said the medical records presented before the court showed that Sarfraz was referred to Sir J J Hospital, which had shown that he was experiencing medical issues. Sarfraz’s lawyer Aamir Shaikh also submitted that evidence showed that he had tried to change the lane to avoid colliding with other cars queued up at the toll booth but while doing so, dashed into three cars.

“There is no doubt that the accident in question is a serious one, where four precious lives have been lost and some other persons have also been injured. On going through the entire record, it is not seen that the applicant was under the influence of alcohol at the time,” the court said, adding that prima facie, there is no malafide intention or premeditated act on the accused’s part.

The court said the accused shall attend the trial on all dates and not influence any witnesses or tamper with evidence. He has also been asked to surrender his licence for a period of five years until he undertakes treatment and can apply for its return thereafter if he desires.