Outrage in Maharashtra: Protests and Officials Crack Down After School Sexual Assault Incident

NCPCR Chairperson Priyank Kanungo revealed lapses in a sexual assault case involving two minor girls at a school in Maharashtra's Badlapur. A high-level probe has been ordered, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed. Protests erupted, demanding justice and highlighting the school's alleged attempt to suppress the case.

NCPCR Chairperson Priyank Kanungo exposed critical lapses in the handling of a sexual assault case involving two minor girls at a school in Badlapur, Maharashtra. Kanungo stated that the school attempted to suppress the case and faulted the concerned police station for failing to register an FIR promptly.

Addressing ANI, Kanungo emphasized the insensitivity of the school and the police station, which delayed filing an FIR. He noted that Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has initiated strict action against the concerned officers and highlighted the necessity for stringent measures against the school administration.

A team has been commissioned to investigate the incident on-site. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde ordered a high-level probe and confirmed the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to expedite justice. The SIT, led by senior IPS officer Arti Singh, will conduct a thorough investigation and ensure those guilty face severe consequences.

Protests ignited as residents vandalized the school and neighboring areas, leading to police intervention, including the use of tear gas, to disperse the crowd. Authorities detained several individuals involved in stone-throwing incidents. The outrage spread statewide, with Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi condemning the assault and urging for the approval of the Maharashtra Shakti Criminal Law for better protection of women and children.

(With inputs from agencies.)