Court decision & charges
A Patiala House Court in Delhi on Saturday granted bail to Gaganpreet Kaur, who is accused in the high-profile BMW accident that resulted in the death of Navjot Singh, a Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Finance. The court also raised serious observations against a paramedic, citing a “negligent act” during the post-accident proceedings.
Background of the accident
On September 14, a BMW allegedly driven by Gaganpreet Kaur collided with a motorcycle ridden by Navjot Singh and his wife near the Dhaula Kuan area of Delhi. Singh died in the accident, while his wife sustained critical injuries.
Gaganpreet was arrested and remanded into judicial custody pending investigation. She faces charges under penal provisions including culpable homicide not amounting to murder, rash and negligent driving, and possible tampering with evidence.
Allegations & court’s observations
In granting bail, the court questioned the conduct of a paramedic involved, pointing out deficiencies in the medical response and suggesting potential negligence in how post-accident treatment was handled. The court’s remarks underscore concerns about whether immediate care was administered appropriately.
Legal arguments & defense stance
Gaganpreet’s legal team had argued lack of prior criminal record, her cooperation with authorities, and that she was not a flight risk. They also asserted that the accident was not intentional and that she lacked medical proficiency, which would limit her capacity to triage or administer care. Prosecutors, however, countered that the delay in informing police, the choice of hospital, and post-crash actions raise reasonable doubts about the narrative.
Implications & next steps
With bail granted, the investigation will continue in full. The prosecution may appeal the bail order or contest its terms. Evidence such as CCTV footage, hospital records, paramedic logs, and witness statements will become crucial. The court’s scrutiny of the paramedic’s role adds a new dimension, potentially expanding inquiries into post-crash medical handling.