maharashtra-cm-shinde-orders-sit-probe-after-girls-assault

In response to the disturbing allegations of sexual assault involving two young girls at a school in Badlapur, Maharashtra, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the incident. The Chief Minister emphasised that the investigation will be thorough and that no one involved will escape accountability.

 

Speaking to the media, CM Shinde expressed his grave concern over the incident. He assured that the SIT, established to handle the case, would leave no stone unturned in seeking justice.

 

“I have taken serious cognizance of the incident in Badlapur. And SIT has already been formed, and we will also take action against the school where this happened. We are moving to fast-track the case, and no one will be spared if found guilty,” Shinde stated.

 

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has appointed Inspector General Arti Singh to lead the SIT. The Thane Police Commissioner has been instructed to propose transferring the case to a fast-track court, ensuring swift and strict legal proceedings.

 

Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar has vowed to strengthen safety measures in schools across the state. A new circular will mandate operational CCTVs in all schools. Additionally, a committee modelled after the Vishaka committee will be established to enhance safety protocols.

 

Kesarkar revealed that the school principal, a class teacher, and two assistants have been suspended. The school has received a notice, and a senior police inspector who delayed the initial response has been transferred, though Kesarkar suggested that suspension might be appropriate.

 

Kesarkar also highlighted that the state has established the Savitribai Phule Committee for child safety and will install complaint boxes in schools. He confirmed that one individual has been arrested in connection with the assault and assured that the maximum punishment will be pursued. The state government will provide a compensation of ₹3 lakh to the victims' families.

 

The incident has sparked widespread outrage. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi condemned the state’s response, calling for the approval of the Maharashtra Shakti Criminal Law to prevent such incidents in the future.

 

“The entire state is outraged. We must ensure no other child or woman faces such a travesty. The government’s ongoing negligence towards women’s safety is unacceptable,” Chaturvedi said. She criticised societal attitudes that place undue blame on women for their safety.

 

Protests erupted at Badlapur Railway Station, where demonstrators clashed with police, leading to stone pelting and disruptions in local train services. The Central Railway’s Chief Public Relations Officer reported that trains were halted due to the protests.