Nagpur, India: On, Wednesday, Sessions Judge R.S. Patil Bhosle rejected the bail application of Ritu Maloo, the main accused in the Ram Jhula hit-and-run case, meaning Maloo will likely spend Diwali in Nagpur Central Jail.

The case stems from a tragic accident on February 25, 2024, when two youths were killed after Maloo, allegedly driving a Mercedes under the influence of alcohol, struck them. Eyewitnesses identified her during a jail identification parade, and the investigation is still ongoing.

Advocate Amol Hunge, representing the complainant, argued against bail, pointing out that the CID investigation is not yet complete and that the chargesheet has not been filed. He supported his argument with seven Supreme Court rulings, insisting that Maloo should remain in custody during the ongoing probe.

Maloo’s lawyer, Advocate Chandrasekhar Jaltare, requested bail because her 14-year-old daughter is ill and in need of care. However, the court was informed that other family members could take responsibility for the child.

Given the severity of the charges and the ongoing investigation, Judge Bhosle denied the bail request. Eyewitnesses Mayuresh Dadwe and Ankit Khiche had previously identified Maloo as the driver involved in the accident and provided video evidence of the incident. Their statements were recorded at Tehsil Police Station, and the High Court later transferred the case to the CID for further investigation.