Thane cab driver Nishant Shukla faces attempt to murder charge for assault

An investigation has intensified in Thane after an app-based cab driver assaulted a 70-year-old man on a public road following a dispute over spitting. The incident, which was captured on a viral video, has prompted direct action from both state leadership and transport officials.

The victim, identified as Sarosh Dastur, suffered a fractured leg during the physical confrontation. Dastur is now set to undergo surgery to treat the fractured limb.

The altercation began when Dastur objected to the driver spitting on a public road in Thane. The driver, identified as Nishant Shukla, allegedly turned violent following the objection, leading to the assault on the elderly resident.

In the wake of the incident, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde intervened in the matter. Shinde ordered law enforcement authorities to register an attempt to murder case against the accused cab driver, Shukla.

In addition to the criminal charges, Shukla faces the loss of his professional driving privileges. Transport authorities have launched their own inquiry into the driver's conduct. The Regional Transport Office (RTO) is currently reviewing the situation to decide on administrative penalties.

Transport officials confirmed they are actively examining the legal findings surrounding the assault. Depending on the outcome of this review, the RTO may initiate formal proceedings to suspend or permanently cancel Shukla's driving license.

The investigation by local police and transport authorities is currently gathering pace as the victim prepares for his upcoming surgery.