Bombay High Court Rebukes Maharashtra Government Over Child Safety Committee Inaction

The Bombay High Court criticized the Maharashtra government for failing to establish a Child Safety Committee despite previous directives after a school sexual assault incident in Badlapur. The court noted a discrepancy between the government's assurances and actions, emphasizing the committee’s vital role in safeguarding children in schools.

The Bombay High Court on Wednesday expressed its dissatisfaction with the Maharashtra government for not establishing a Child Safety Committee despite earlier instructions following the Badlapur school sexual assault case.

A division bench of Justices Revati Mohite Dere and Prithviraj Chavan remarked that the government's promises did not align with its actions. ''This reflects on your (government's) bonafide. Your actions contradict your words,'' the court stated.

The court emphasized that the Child Safety Committee was expected to convene, deliberate, and submit a report within eight weeks, outlining recommendations for the safety of schoolchildren. The high court had previously taken suo motu cognisance of the alleged sexual assault of two minor girls in a Badlapur school by a male attendant, who was later killed in police custody on September 23. The bench had ordered the formation of a committee consisting of legal and educational experts to submit a report by October 29.

(With inputs from agencies.)