Elderly Mumbai driver’s stroke worsens after police hold him for alleged DUI
A 73-year-old man who suffered a stroke while driving was detained at Versova police station for suspected drunk driving, delaying his medical care and leaving him partially paralysed.
Sharad Kadam, 73, suffered a stroke while operating his vehicle in Versova on July 25, causing a minor collision. Police arrested him on suspicion of drunk driving, citing a constable’s claim that he smelled of alcohol, and held him at the Versova police station for an estimated five hours. No breath-alcohol test was administered; instead, Kadam was taken to Cooper Hospital for a blood test, where he reportedly told doctors he was intoxicated, though a later test at Nanavati Hospital showed no alcohol.
The prolonged detention delayed his access to urgent care by nearly twelve hours, leaving the right side of his body paralysed. Relatives, including his nephew Rohan Rathod, accuse the police and the other driver of neglecting his stroke symptoms, while MLA Ameet Satam has written to DCP Purushottam Karad seeking accountability. Senior police officials have not responded to requests for comment.
Why it matters
The case highlights potential mishandling of medical emergencies by law enforcement, raising concerns about procedural compliance and patient safety.
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