Encounter Killing of Accused Sweeper Sparks Controversy in Maharashtra

Akshay Shinde, a sweeper accused of sexually assaulting two minors in a Maharashtra school, was killed in retaliatory police firing after snatching a gun and injuring an officer. The event has triggered massive protests and calls for an investigation into the circumstances of his death.

Akshay Shinde, the sweeper accused of sexually assaulting two young girls in Badlapur, Maharashtra, has died in police firing after snatching an officer's gun and opening fire, an official reported on Monday.

Shinde, who was being transported from Taloja jail to Badlapur, grabbed a revolver and injured one officer. He was subsequently shot by another officer and was later declared dead at a hospital in Kalwa.

The incident has ignited widespread protests and opposition leaders are demanding an in-depth investigation, alleging the encounter might be a cover-up for higher culpability.

(With inputs from agencies.)