NEW DELHI: A 20-year-old law student lost control of his speeding vehicle, colliding with multiple cars and pedestrians, leading to one fatality and several injuries. The driver, identified as Rakshit Chaurasiya, later claimed that his visibility was obstructed after the vehicleโs airbags deployed.
According to police reports, Chaurasiya and his friend were returning from Dera Circle after dropping off another acquaintance with whom they had attended the Holika Dahan ceremony, an event marking the eve of Holi.
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โWe were moving ahead of a two-wheeler, preparing to take a right turn when we hit a pothole. A scooter and a parked car were near the turn. Our vehicle brushed against the scooter, causing the airbags to deploy. After that, I completely lost control,โ Chaurasiya recounted, adding that the car was traveling at approximately 50-60 kmph when the accident occurred.
Initially, Chaurasiya denied consuming any intoxicants but later admitted to having ingested bhaang (a cannabis-based drink traditionally consumed during Holi). Expressing remorse, he requested to meet the victimsโ families and accepted responsibility for the tragedy.
โI was informed that a woman had lost her life and several others were injured. I deeply regret my actions and wish to meet their families. Whatever decision they take, I will accept it,โ he stated.
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A video capturing the horrific accident on Thursday night quickly spread online. The footage from Vadodaraโs Karelibaug area showed the vehicle recklessly plowing into multiple cars and pedestrians at a busy intersection. The impact claimed the life of Hemaliben Patel, while at least four others sustained severe injuries, including 12-year-old Jaini, 35-year-old Nishaben, an unidentified 10-year-old girl, and a 40-year-old man.
In a separate video taken moments after the crash, the driverโs friend appeared distressed, visibly shaken by the devastation caused. Meanwhile, Chaurasiya, emerging from the wrecked car, seemed disoriented and was heard shouting incoherently. Disturbingly, he repeatedly exclaimed, โAnother roundโ and โOm Namah Shivay.โ
Leena Patil, Joint Commissioner of Police, confirmed that Chaurasiya was under the influence of intoxicants and has been taken into custody. Vadodara Police Commissioner Narasimha Komar stated that the accident involved multiple vehicles, including two active automobiles and an electric vehicle (EV).
Authorities continue to investigate the case, as the tragic accident has sparked widespread outrage over reckless driving and substance abuse during festive celebrations.
