“Tragic Incident: 58-Year-Old Pedestrian Fatally Struck by Drunk Police Officer in Delhi’s Bhikaji Cama Place”
In the early hours of Monday in Southwest Delhi’s Sarojini Nagar, tragedy struck when a 58-year-old man lost his life in a devastating accident allegedly involving a Delhi Police vehicle. The incident, reported around 3:27 am at the Sarojini Nagar police station, revealed that the victim, identified as Rajesh Gupta, was fatally struck by the police van near the Bhikaji Cama Place Metro station. The driver of the vehicle, identified as constable Pardeep Kumar from Rajinder Nagar police station, was apprehended by authorities following the incident. A case under the relevant section of the Indian Penal Code concerning death by negligence was registered against him.
Rajesh Gupta, employed at The Leela Palace hotel in Chanakyapuri as a manpower supplier, was returning from his late-night duties when the tragedy occurred. He leaves behind his wife Madhuri and three children – Akash, Shivani, and Sonia. Of note, Shivani Gupta, one of his daughters, is recognized as an athlete and fitness influencer with a substantial online following. The untimely demise of Rajesh Gupta has not only left his family shattered but also deeply impacted his wider circle of friends and acquaintances.
According to the account provided by DCP Rohit Meena, constable Kumar had commandeered the vehicle assigned to the Rajender Nagar Station House Officer (SHO) for a late-night outing with two friends. The DCP revealed that the constable and his companions were consuming alcohol inside the vehicle while en route to Hauz Khas. Tragically, the vehicle, reportedly driven at high speed, collided with a divider, resulting in the fatal injury to Rajesh Gupta and causing the van to overturn. While the occupants sustained minor injuries, the loss of Rajesh Gupta has sent shockwaves through the community.
The sentiments shared by Shaista Saifi, a family friend, offer a glimpse into the character of Rajesh Gupta – a kind and supportive individual who cherished his family and extended warmth to everyone he encountered. His tragic passing serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact of irresponsible behavior, prompting reflections on road safety and accountability within law enforcement agencies.
Author:- Apoorva Arora