An altercation over a simple request not to spit on a public road allegedly led to a violent assault in Thane, Maharashtra, leaving a senior citizen with serious injuries. The incident unfolded near Jupiter Hospital on the evening of Tuesday, June 6, 2026, when Saroj Dastur, approximately 75 years old, confronted a cab driver reportedly spitting on the roadway. Accompanied by his wife, Radhika Dastur, aged between 70 and 72, the couple’s intervention escalated into an unexpected and brutal conflict.

Witnesses and a video that circulated widely on social media depict the accused cab driver, identified as Nishant Shukla, 40 years old, reacting aggressively. Following the exchange of words, he allegedly pushed Mr Dastur and, in a subsequent moment of rage, grabbed a sizeable stone that he threw at the elderly man, resulting in a fractured leg and other injuries.

Viral Video Fuels Public Outrage

The footage of the incident quickly gained traction online, triggering a wave of outrage among the local community and beyond. Many expressed disbelief that an elderly individual could be subjected to such violence for expressing concern about public hygiene. This incident has raised questions about safety and respect in public spaces, especially regarding the treatment of senior citizens.

A statement from the office of Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, indicated that the accused driver was not originally from the state. The severe nature of the attack was highlighted in the official communication, which mentioned that video evidence showcased the moment Shukla armed himself with a stone during the confrontation.

The public response has been significant, with calls for accountability rising throughout Thane. Community members, as well as political leaders, have voiced their dismay over the apparent severity of the assault on Mr Dastur, prompting discussions about potential legal ramifications for the accused.

Efforts to Apprehend the Accused

In the wake of the viral footage, local volunteers from the Shiv Sena party, led by Mr Shinde, organised efforts to locate the accused driver. According to reports from the Deputy Chief Minister’s office, party members successfully tracked Shukla down and subsequently handed him over to officials at Vartak Nagar Police Station. Notable among those involved in the search was Nitesh “Aau” Patole, a local Shiv Sena leader.

In their statement, Shinde’s office suggested that the local party workers had administered a form of justice prior to the handover, which reflects the heightened emotions surrounding the incident and the community’s urgent desire for action against the alleged assailant.

Following the apprehension of Shukla, Shinde personally contacted the Thane Police Commissioner, Ashutosh Dumbre, urging the application of harsher charges, specifically under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Section 109, which pertains to attempt to murder. This intervention underscores the seriousness with which the state government is approaching the matter.

Police Investigate Incident

Despite the heightened attention and political urgency surrounding the case, reports indicate that no formal complaint had been registered with local authorities as of the latest updates. Police officials have stated they are currently reviewing the viral footage and gathering additional details about the incident.

In a region that remains a political stronghold for Shinde, this incident has sparked considerable dialogue on issues of civic responsibility and public behaviour, leading many to call for comprehensive measures to prevent such acts of violence in the future. The nature of the attack on Mr Dastur has resonated deeply within the community, highlighting broader societal concerns about the treatment of the elderly.

Local residents and activists continue to monitor the situation closely, advocating for justice and seeking reassurance that actions against vulnerable members of society will not be tolerated. The outcome of this case may serve as a significant marker in addressing public safety and respect in communal spaces.

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