The Bombay High Court has taken a stern view of the alleged assault on doctors and hospital staff by Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) corporator Ramesh Mhatre, refusing to grant him immediate bail and directing that the investigation be handled by a senior police officer.
During the hearing, the court observed that elected representatives are expected to serve the public, not intimidate or attack them. The judges remarked that people vote for leaders with the expectation that they will protect public interests, making allegations of violence by a public representative a matter of serious concern.
High Court Orders Senior-Level Investigation
The court directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) of the concerned zone to take charge of the investigation without delay. It instructed the officer to ensure that statements of the complainant, doctors, hospital employees and other witnesses are recorded promptly while providing them with adequate protection.
The High Court also sought an update on the progress of the investigation at the next hearing scheduled for July 31.
Court Questions Initial Police Response
The bench expressed dissatisfaction over the initial handling of the case, observing that the investigation lacked urgency in its early stages.
The judges also questioned the manner in which the accused was treated during the investigation, noting that the police appeared to have shown unusual consideration towards him. These observations prompted the court to emphasise the need for an impartial and thorough probe.
Assault Video Comes Under Judicial Scrutiny
Referring to the viral video of the alleged incident, the court noted that the visuals appeared to show the accused repeatedly attacking a doctor without hesitation.
The defence argued that Mhatre, who is 73 years old, should be granted relief considering his age. However, the court observed that the video did not suggest any physical inability and remarked that he appeared active throughout the alleged incident.
The bench also noted that although Mhatre later cited health concerns after being sent to judicial custody, the footage from the alleged assault did not indicate that he was suffering from any serious medical condition at the time.
Background of the Case
The incident reportedly took place on July 6 at a municipal hospital in Dombivli, Thane district. According to the allegations, an argument broke out after relatives of a pregnant patient claimed there had been a delay in medical treatment. The dispute allegedly escalated into an assault on doctors and hospital staff.
A magistrate’s court had granted Mhatre bail on July 15. However, the Bombay High Court later took suo motu cognisance of the matter, describing the allegations as serious and staying the bail order. Following the High Court’s intervention, Mhatre surrendered before the police and is currently in judicial custody.
Defence Seeks Relaxation
During the latest hearing, Mhatre’s legal counsel requested the court to reconsider the stay on his bail. The defence submitted that the corporator was willing to comply with strict conditions, including remaining outside Maharashtra until the charge sheet is filed if required.
The High Court, however, declined to provide immediate relief, stating that ensuring a fair and transparent investigation remains the priority.
