High Court Grills Maharashtra Govt on Police Lapses in School Assault Case

The Bombay High Court questioned the Maharashtra government regarding inadequate police response to a sexual assault case involving two minors at a school in Badlapur. A departmental inquiry revealed dereliction of duty by an officer. A Special Investigation Team was established after public criticism of police handling.

The Bombay High Court has demanded answers from the Maharashtra government regarding the inadequate initial police response to a shocking case of sexual assault on two young girls in a Badlapur school.

During a session held Wednesday, Justices Revati Mohite Dere and Prithviraj Chavan explored the allegations of administrative misconduct by local police officials, which had sparked public outrage. A departmental inquiry indicated that charges of dereliction of duty have been identified against one involved officer, with a report forwarded for further action.

Following a public outcry over the serious investigative lapses, the state government formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to handle the case. The High Court is supervising the ongoing probe, and has also instigated a safety and security study for children in educational institutions, awaiting committee findings.

(With inputs from agencies.)