Click to play videoMumbai: Alistair Pareira got six months’ simple imprisonment for running over seven people. But Mumbaikars felt Alistair should have got a stricter sentence.
“The laws which were applicable for the speed of a horse are still applicable for someone who is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol,” said advocate Neetin Pradhan.
Perhaps it is these age-old laws that ensured that Alistair Pereira got away with just six months of simple imprisonment and a fine of Rs 5 lakh, raising questions about the shoddy work done by Mumbai Police.
But experts say along with sharper investigations, it is the law that needs to be made up to date.
“Time has come that changes need to be made in the legislature. The punishment should be made a little rigourous so that a person thinks twice before drinking and driving,” said advocate Sachin Shetey.
But lawyers say that even with the present laws the case could have been argued much better by simply following basic legal procedures like recording the statements of Alistair's co-passengers, examining all officers present at the spot, submitting chemical analysis report in court and questioning the forensic expert.
Mumbaikars share the feeling of the High Court and say that the case should be reopened. Many said that there should definately be a retrial.
Even if the police had simply followed the rule book, Alistair could be facing a stiffer sentence. Now, perhaps, it is the prod from the judiciary that will set into motion the wheels of justice once again.
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