Thane, Maharashtra: A man accused of sexually assaulting two minor girls at a school in Badlapur was shot dead by police on 23rd Sep after he attempted to escape custody and fired at officers.
Akshay Shinde, the accused, was being transported to Thane for further investigation in a separate case filed by his wife when the incident occurred. While traveling near the Mumbra bypass, Shinde managed to seize a revolver from one of the escorting officers and opened fire. In response, another officer returned fire, fatally injuring Shinde.
The sexual assault incident involving Shinde sparked widespread protests and outrage in the local community. The two minor girls were allegedly assaulted in the school’s toilets in August. The school had employed Shinde on a contractual basis to clean the toilets.
Following public outcry, the Maharashtra government formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the case. The state’s deputy chief minister, Devendra Fadnavis, also ordered the suspension of senior police officials involved in the initial case handling due to perceived delays in action.
The school management faced criticism for handling the situation and suspended the principal, a class teacher, and a female attendant.
In September, the Bombay High Court emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation and warned against rushing the filing of a charge sheet. The court also highlighted the need to educate boys to prevent such incidents.
Key points:
- Akshay Shinde, accused of sexual assault, was shot dead by police during a transfer.
- The incident occurred near the Mumbra bypass.
- Shinde seized a revolver and fired at officers.
- The sexual assault case involved two minor girls.
- The Maharashtra government formed a SIT to investigate.
- Senior police officials were suspended due to delays.
- The school management faced criticism and suspensions.
- The Bombay High Court emphasized thorough investigation and education of boys.