Judicial Custody for Badlapur Assault Accused, Education Minister Calls for Panic Buttons in Schools

The accused in the Badlapur sexual assault incident was sent to 14 days of judicial custody. Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar suggests panic buttons in schools for safety. The SIT has registered an FIR against school authorities for violating the POCSO Act by not reporting the assault.

On Monday, the Kalyan Court ordered 14 days of judicial custody for the accused in the Badlapur sexual assault case. Previously, the accused had been in police custody.

Amidst public outrage over the incident involving two fourth-grade girls, Maharashtra Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar proposed the installation of panic buttons in schools and hostels to enhance women's safety. Speaking at a press conference in Mumbai, Kesarkar emphasized the need for such advanced technology alongside existing CCTVs.

The case has led to an FIR against the school authorities by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) under Section 19 of the POCSO Act for failing to report the assault. The investigation, spearheaded by the deputy director of the Mumbai region, involves multiple departments. Kesarkar criticized the opposition for their inaction during previous regimes and affirmed that those found negligent would face legal consequences.

(With inputs from agencies.)