While granting relief, the court made it clear that bail does not amount to acquittal and that the criminal trial will continue on its merits. “Two innocent lives were lost, and then there were conspiracies. The only point in your favour is that you have spent a long time in jail,” Justice Nagaratna observed, underscoring the gravity of the allegations.

The Bench expressed serious concern over the broader social issue of minors being given unrestricted access to powerful cars and money. Justice Nagaratna said parents must also be held accountable when children are provided vehicles and financial resources without adequate supervision. “If parents cannot guide their children properly, they should not give them cars or ATM cards,” she remarked, calling such conduct a growing societal problem.

The court also took note of a disturbing pattern of reckless driving under the influence of alcohol, particularly during late-night celebrations. Agreeing with submissions made by senior advocate Gopal Shankarnarayanan, appearing for the deceased woman’s mother, the Bench said strict legal action is necessary in such cases to deter similar conduct.

The case relates to a crash that occurred on the night of May 19, 2024, in Kalyani Nagar, Pune. A minor, allegedly driving a Porsche at nearly 200 kmph while intoxicated, rammed into a motorcycle, killing a 24-year-old software engineer couple on the spot. The incident triggered nationwide outrage, not only due to the fatalities but also because of allegations of attempted cover-up.

Investigators later alleged that the minor’s father and others colluded with hospital staff to manipulate blood test reports to suppress evidence of alcohol consumption. Money was allegedly paid to facilitate the tampering. As part of this probe, Mittal, Sood and Gaikwad were arrested on charges of conspiracy and destruction of evidence. The Bombay High Court had earlier rejected their bail pleas, citing the risk of witness intimidation and obstruction of justice.

The Supreme Court, however, took into account the prolonged incarceration of the accused while granting bail, without commenting on the merits of the prosecution case.

The case continues to be closely watched, as it raises critical questions about road safety, accountability of parents, and the misuse of influence and wealth to evade the law.