Bombay High Court Addresses Outrage Over Alleged School Assault in Badlapur

The Bombay High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of the alleged sexual assault of two fourth-grade girls at a school in Badlapur, sparking violent protests. The Maharashtra State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has proposed dedicated police units for women and children to address delayed responses.

In the wake of violent protests in Maharashtra, the Bombay High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of the alleged sexual assault of two young girls at a school in Badlapur. The case will be heard today by a division bench consisting of Justice Revati Mohite Dere and Justice Prithviraj Chavan.

The assault has incited public outrage after police arrested a school attendant on August 17, accused of abusing two fourth-grade girls. Outrage in Badlapur has been palpable, leading to significant public unrest and protests.

The Maharashtra State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MSCPCR) has responded by recommending the establishment of specialized branches or "mini-police stations" for women and children in every police station across the state. The proposal addresses the alleged delay in police response, with MSCPCR Chairperson Susieben Shah detailing a plan during a press conference in Mumbai on Wednesday.

Susieben Shah emphasized the inadequacy of current Women's Help Desks, Special Juvenile Police Units, and Child Welfare Police Officers, noting they are not solely dedicated to women and children's complaints. Often, these units are understaffed and the officers are diverted to other duties, causing delays in addressing critical issues. Shah proposed establishing dedicated units similar to the Crime Branch to focus exclusively on crimes against women and children.

During recent protests, police resorted to lathi-charge at Badlapur railway station after demonstrators blocked the tracks, affecting 12 express and 30 local trains. Railway services resumed late at night after the situation was under control. Maharashtra Police have made arrests and filed FIRs following the massive protests, which included stone-pelting and disruptions.

Officials confirmed that normalcy has been restored, though the incident has prompted a broader discussion about the protection and prompt response required for the safety of women and children.

(With inputs from agencies.)