Porsche accident in Pune: WCD panel recommends action against JJB members for ‘procedural errors’ in releasing minors on bail

The panel investigating the conduct of two members of the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) in connection with the bail of the minor accused in the Pune Porsche accident case has recommended disciplinary action against them for “procedural lapses”, an official said on July 17.

On May 19, two IT professionals were killed in Pune’s Kalyani Nagar district when their motorcycle was hit by a speeding Porsche, allegedly driven by the minor in an intoxicated state.

The case caused a nationwide uproar after JJB member LN Danwade granted bail to the accused on very lenient conditions, including requiring him to write a 300-word essay on road safety.

Later, a committee was set up by the Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD), Government of Maharashtra, to investigate the conduct of two JJB members in connection with the bail of the minor accused. In its report, the panel said that there were “procedural lapses”, “misconduct” and “non-compliance with norms” by the JJB members.

As part of its investigation, the committee appointed by the WCD Department had recorded the statements of the two JJB members.

“In its report, the committee recommended action against the two JJB members for the procedural lapses. Based on the findings of the report, a notice of reply was issued to them (the JJB members) inviting them to comment. However, as their replies were not satisfactory, we wrote to the state government suggesting disciplinary action against both the members,” said a WCD official, who wished to remain anonymous.

Earlier this month, the minor 17-year-old defendant submitted a 300-word essay on road safety, thereby fulfilling the JJB’s bail conditions.