Attempted Murder Case: Who is Bhushan Bhanushali, the absconding Thane builder?

The investigation into the attempted murder of a Thane-based hotelier has gathered pace, with the Shri Nagar police arresting two more accused and pushing the total number of arrests in the case to seven. The latest detainees have been identified as Paresh Wagh and Shubham Lokhande, the personal assistant of the prime accused, developer Bhushan Bhanushali. Despite repeated efforts, Bhanushali himself remains absconding, with both the Thane sessions court and the Bombay High Court rejecting his bail applications.

Who Is Bhushan Bhanushali?

Bhushan Bhanushali is a real estate developer based in Thane, known locally for his involvement in property projects across the city and its surrounding suburbs. While he does not enjoy celebrity status, his name has frequently surfaced in business and civic circles, largely due to his professional network and alleged political connections. Investigators believe these links may have contributed to the difficulty in apprehending him since the case came to light.

According to police officials, Bhanushali is accused of orchestrating the attack that took place on July 16 at an office in Wagle Estate, following what has been described as a minor dispute involving his son. Authorities allege that the altercation escalated dramatically, culminating in a planned assault on the hotelier.

The Attack and Police Case

The incident occurred at around 3.15 pm, when the hotelier arrived at the office for a scheduled business meeting. Police claim that a group of nearly 21 men suddenly stormed the premises and launched a ferocious attack. Instead of weapons, the assailants allegedly used everyday objects such as cups, paperweights and flowerpots, turning the office into a scene of chaos. The victim suffered multiple injuries, including a particularly grievous blow to his private parts, and was rushed to hospital for treatment.

An FIR was registered the same day, invoking multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including attempt to murder, rioting, unlawful assembly, criminal intimidation, house trespass and voluntarily causing hurt. During the course of the investigation, police also seized Bhanushali’s licensed firearm as part of the evidence.

Arrests, Bail and Growing Criticism

While some of the accused have since secured bail, several others remain behind bars. The continued absence of Bhanushali has drawn sharp criticism from local residents and activists. Mahesh More, a resident of Thane, has openly accused the police of moving slowly due to the developer’s influence, alleging that his political connections are shielding him from arrest. Police officials, however, maintain that efforts to trace and apprehend the prime accused are ongoing. With fresh arrests and mounting public pressure, the case has become a significant test of accountability and law enforcement credibility in Thane.