Massive Clashes Erupt at Badlapur Station Amid Protests Over Sexual Assault Case

Protests against an alleged sexual assault at a Badlapur school turned violent, leading to clashes between demonstrators and police. Stone-pelting and lathi-charge ensued at Badlapur Railway Station. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has called for a high-level investigation and immediate suspensions of key police officers.

Protests at Badlapur Railway Station took a violent turn on Tuesday as demonstrators clashed with police over an alleged sexual assault on two minors at a local school. The police resorted to a lathi-charge to disperse the crowd, who retaliated by pelting stones. Visuals captured the chaos, including a damaged bus in the vicinity.

Government Railway Police (GRP) Commissioner Ravindra Shisve stated that the railway track blockade, which had brought local train services to a halt, has been cleared. Earlier, police used tear gas to control enraged residents who had begun stone-pelting at the school where the alleged assault occurred, prompting a widespread outcry.

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the incident and announced that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) would be formed. He also ordered the immediate suspension of key police personnel who delayed initial action. In response, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde assured that those responsible would face strict action, emphasizing a high-level probe.

(With inputs from agencies.)