Truck driver convicted of murder for Mulund toll plaza incident; life term and concurrent sentence

On sentencing, the court declined to treat the case as the 'rarest of rare' and did not award the death penalty. The accused was sentenced to life imprisonment for murder and three years' rigorous imprisonment for attempt to murder, with both sentences to run concurrently.

In the sessions court, the driver was found guilty of murder for deliberately running over the man at the Mulund toll plaza. The court rejected the defence claims that the incident was accidental or that the accused was not driving, noting that the manner of the act indicated clear intent. The prosecution's evidence—eyewitness accounts, toll plaza staff testimony, CCTV footage, and identification evidence—was accepted. CCTV footage was admitted as admissible, showing the vehicle number and surrounding circumstances, though the driver's face was not clearly visible.

Around 10 pm near the Anand Nagar toll plaza in Mulund, the truck involved brushed against Soni's car. Soni stepped out and stood in front of the truck as toll staff gathered. The driver, fully aware of Soni's position, suddenly accelerated, ran him over, and dragged him for several feet before fleeing. Eyewitnesses including toll plaza staff supported the prosecution, and another individual narrowly escaped being hit, leading to an additional charge of attempt to murder.