Maharashtra Protests Erupt Over Alleged School Assault

Violent protests in Maharashtra's Badlapur erupted over the alleged sexual assault of two schoolgirls. ACP Suresh Varade urged the public not to believe false rumours, while the Bombay High Court took suo motu cognizance of the case. Investigation led by SIT Chief Special IG Arti Singh is underway.

Amid violent protests in Maharashtra over the alleged sexual assault of two girls at a school in Badlapur, ACP Suresh Varade on Thursday appealed to the public not to believe the spreading rumours. He assured that the cyber cell will take strict action against those spreading false information.

Notably, the Bombay High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of the incident. Justice Revati Mohite Dere and Justice Prithviraj Chavan are hearing the case. Special IG Arti Singh of the SIT is leading the investigation, with all aspects being scrutinized. Important documents, including the FIR, have been handed over to the court.

The statements of the minors involved have been recorded. An attendant was arrested on August 17 for allegedly abusing the girls, triggering widespread outrage. The Maharashtra State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MSCPCR) has since recommended special branches in every police station to handle cases involving women and children.

(With inputs from agencies.)