August 6, 2025

In a significant decision, the Bombay High Court ruled against granting bail to former BJP MLA Ganpat Gaikwad and three co-accused involved in a shocking shooting incident that took place last year inside a police station. The court's ruling came on Tuesday, confirming the prosecution's stance regarding the severity of the crime and the potential for witness tampering. The incident occurred on February 2, 2022, at the Hill Line Police Station in Ulhasnagar when supporters of Ganpat Gaikwad and Mahesh Gaikwad, a prominent member of the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, converged to lodge complaints against one another. Tensions escalated when Mahesh Gaikwad entered the cabin of Senior Police Inspector Anil Jagtap to discuss the grievances. Just as the situation threatened to boil over, Ganpat Gaikwad and his group entered and a heated argument began. In the ensuing chaos, Ganpat allegedly brandished a concealed revolver and fired multiple rounds at Mahesh Gaikwad and his associate Rahul Patil. Mahesh was hit several times and collapsed instantly. The prosecution has provided evidence, including CCTV footage, showing the brutal nature of this confrontation, where Ganpat reportedly then proceeded to physically assault Mahesh. Furthermore, co-accused Kene allegedly followed and fired more rounds at Mahesh, while other accomplices attacked Mahesh's bodyguard in a disconcerting display of political violence within a supposed safe space—the police station. Given the gravity of the situation, all four accused faced serious charges, including attempted murder and unlawful assembly. Ganpat's defense argued the firing was unplanned, and he had no intention to harm Mahesh. However, lawyers representing Mahesh countered these claims by emphasizing the severity of the attack and the need for strict legal accountability. They demanded the case be moved to a fast-track court for accelerated proceedings. Justice Amit Borkar, presiding over the proceedings, acknowledged the considerable evidence presented, noting the potential for obstructing justice were bail to be granted. He remarked, "The heinous nature of the offence reflects a total disregard for the rule of law and public safety." The court asserted the importance of addressing such violent acts, particularly occurring within a police station—an institution intended to uphold the law. The judge also touched on the broader implications of the case, highlighting how allowing bail in this instance could foster an atmosphere of fear and lawlessness, undermining public confidence in the efficacy of law enforcement. Justice Borkar reaffirmed that the precedent of granting bail to co-accused does not automatically apply, emphasizing the specific circumstances surrounding each individual involved in the case. As the verdict broke, Mahesh Gaikwad held a press conference in Kalyan, expressing satisfaction with the court's decision. He reiterated the necessity for a swift and uncompromising trial process to ensure justice is served. Within the heavily politicized environment, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing law enforcement in maintaining order amidst ongoing factional rivalries. In recent political climates where tensions among factions have led to acts of violence, the court ruling stands as a potent message against such behavior. It seeks to reinforce the message that political power cannot trump legal accountability. This case underscores the pressing need for judicial vigilance in maintaining public trust and integrity within legal systems, particularly in politically charged environments. As developments continue, the public will be closely watching the proceedings, hopeful for a resolution that upholds justice and restores confidence in the rule of law.

Read More at Timesofindia →

Tags: Bombay high court, Ganpat gaikwad, Mahesh gaikwad, Bail rejected, Political violence,