Daijiworld Media Network - Bhopal

Bhopal, Apr 17: Five people were injured in Madhya Pradesh’s Shivpuri district after an SUV allegedly driven by the son of a BJP MLA rammed into them on Thursday evening, police said.

The accused, Dinesh Lodhi, son of Pichhore MLA Pritam Lodhi, was driving a Mahindra Thar around 7.30 pm in the Karera area when the incident occurred.

According to police, the vehicle first hit a motorcycle from behind, injuring three riders — Sanjay, Ashish and Anshul Parihar — who were on their way to Dhanra village. The SUV then struck two women, Sita Verma and Pooja Soni, who were walking ahead on the same side of the road.

Sanjay Parihar sustained serious injuries, while the others suffered injuries to their head, limbs and shoulders. Passers-by rushed the injured to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Police said the SUV bore the word “Vidhayak” (MLA) and, based on statements from victims, was being driven by Dinesh Lodhi at the time. A video of the aftermath has gone viral, showing him arguing with bystanders and blaming the victims. He is heard questioning why they did not move despite his use of a siren and horn, and is also seen warning people against recording him.

A case has been registered against him under Section 281 (rash and negligent driving endangering life) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and further investigation is underway, Karera police station in-charge Vinod Chavai said.

Meanwhile, MLA Pritam Lodhi stated that police should act impartially and ensure justice for the victims.

Rash and negligent driving under Section 281 of the BNS, 2023, is punishable with imprisonment of up to six months, a fine of up to Rs 1,000, or both. The offence is cognisable, bailable and triable by a Magistrate.