Sanjay Raut Criticizes Eknath Shinde Government Over Missing CCTV Footage in Sexual Assault Case

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut criticized the Eknath Shinde government regarding the disappearance of CCTV footage in a sexual assault case involving two minors. He accused officials of trying to cover up the incident, which has sparked statewide protests. The Bombay High Court proposes measures for better handling of such cases.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Wednesday criticized the Eknath Shinde government in Maharashtra over the Badlapur incident involving the alleged sexual assault of two minor girls. Raut vehemently questioned the government's silence and the disappearance of CCTV footage from the school.

Addressing a press conference, Raut pointed fingers at Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis for their inaction. 'Who made the CCTV footage disappear? Was it the head of the institution? What is the government doing?' he demanded to know.

Last month, Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar revealed that the last 15 days of CCTV footage from the school were missing, stressing the need for an investigation into the motives behind its disappearance. He also suggested installing panic buttons in schools, similar to CCTVs, to enhance safety.

On Tuesday, the Bombay High Court proposed forming a committee to establish Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for handling sexual assault cases involving minors. This follows a Thane Court's approval for an identification parade of the accused by the Special Investigating Team on August 31. The survivors identified the accused, aiding further investigation.

The case has triggered widespread outrage and multiple protests. Police arrested a school attendant on August 17 for allegedly abusing the girls. The incident highlights a critical need for robust measures to protect children.

(With inputs from agencies.)