Maharashtra Governor Bais Comments on Pune’s Porsche Accident; Advocates for Mandatory NCC Training

Mumbai, 30th May 2024: The tragic Porsche car accident in Kalyaninagar, Pune, which claimed the lives of two IT professionals and involved a minor driver, has sparked widespread outrage and scrutiny across the country.

The incident led to the suspension of two police officers and two doctors involved. Prominent leaders, including Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar, are closely monitoring the case. The opposition has also targeted the ruling parties over the incident.

Governor Ramesh Bais has now weighed in on the situation, asserting that such accidents could be prevented if NCC (National Cadet Corps) training were compulsory for all youth. “If the youth of Pune had received NCC training, the accident would not have happened,” Governor Bais remarked during a ceremony at Raj Bhavan. He emphasized that the values instilled through NCC—patriotism, discipline, and social service—are crucial for young people.

Governor Bais made these comments at the ‘Citation Award Ceremony’ on Thursday when the Maharashtra Directorate of NCC was awarded the ‘Governor’s Certificate’ for being the best directorate. Major General Yogender Singh, Additional Director General of Maharashtra NCC Directorate, received the certificate from the Governor at the Durbar Hall of Raj Bhavan.

Reflecting on his own experience as an NCC cadet, Governor Bais highlighted the importance of discipline in schools and colleges for the nation’s progress. He congratulated the Maharashtra NCC Directorate for its remarkable achievements, noting that it has won the Prime Minister’s Flag 23 times and been the runner-up 8 times. The Governor praised the NCC’s presence across all districts in Maharashtra and commended plans to increase the number of cadets from 1.17 lakh to 1.85 lakh in the next decade.

Governor Bais also appealed to NCC cadets to prioritize national interests in their future careers. The ceremony was attended by senior Indian Army officers, government officials, university vice-chancellors, and NCC cadets from various colleges. The event featured a vibrant cultural program presented by the NCC team.

The Kalyaninagar accident has continued to unveil new information, with arrests of the minor’s father Vishal Agarwal, grandfather Surendra Agarwal, and pub staff involved. The case has led to increased scrutiny on underage driving and the enforcement of laws.

Dr. Ajay Taware, Dr. Shrihari Halnor, and peon Atul Ghatakamble of Sassoon Hospital were produced in court for allegedly tampering with the blood sample of the minor accused. The court remanded them to police custody until June 5, amidst arguments and demands from the public prosecutor for thorough investigation into the tampering allegations and exchange of money involved.