The Salman Khan hit-and-run case is one of the most controversial incidents in the Indian film industry, not just for its tragic implications but also for the way it has unfolded in public discourse. The event occurred on September 28, 2002, when Salman's Toyota Land Cruiser crashed into a pavement in Bandra, Mumbai, resulting in the death of one person and injuries to four others. The subsequent legal battle and the actor's public statements have remained topics of intense scrutiny and debate over the years.
In a particularly revealing interview with Rajat Sharma on his show "Aap Ki Adalat," Salman had discussed the night of the incident, providing a narrative that attempted to clarify his position. He expressed deep emotional distress over the accident, stating, “Main us gaadi mein maujood tha. Aapko andaza hi nahi laga sakte ki jab main jaata hun wahaan se to every time it just hurts me here.”
Salman's account diverged from the prevailing narrative, where many reports suggested that he was intoxicated at the time of the crash. He defended himself by insisting that his driver, not he, was in control of the vehicle: “Bechare masoom so rahe the, hamare driver gaadi chala rahe the, main aur kamaal peeche baithe the.” Here, Khan was attempting to shift the focus away from himself, pointing to his driver, Ashok, who he claimed was responsible for the driving. The assertion that his driver was at the wheel is a crucial point in his defense, although many found it questionable, given the nature of the incident.
The actor continued to challenge the claims that he was speeding, asserting that the conditions were to blame: “Wo log bolte hain ki kyunki 180 – 200 ki speed pe gaadi chalata tha, Sir aap wahan se jo St Paul’s ka rasta hai sir, agar aap Schumacher ko bhi gaadi de do to wo utni fast nahi chala payega.”
Salman's comments have drawn mixed reactions from the public. In a time where social media amplifies voices, the resurfacing of his interview video generated a flurry of commentary online.
The case has long drawn criticism for its perceived leniency towards celebrities, a sentiment that has not been lost on the public. The trial was marked by delays and inconsistencies, leaving many questioning the judicial process. As the case unfolded, Salman Khan’s star power loomed large, and the public's trust in the legal system was tested. The discourse surrounding the incident speaks to broader societal themes of privilege, justice, and the moral responsibilities of public figures.
As Salman Khan continues to navigate the complexities of his past, the fallout from that fateful night continues to resonate within the Indian psyche. His efforts to reframe the narrative, as seen in his interview, underscore a desire for redemption. Yet, the ongoing public scrutiny suggests that such narratives may be met with skepticism, especially when the stakes are as high as life and death.
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