The body of Akshay Shinde, 24, the accused in the shocking Badlapur sexual assault case, was finally laid to rest at the Shantinagar crematorium in Ulhasnagar, Thane district, on Sunday evening. The burial took place under heavy police presence, highlighting the intense emotions and tensions surrounding the case. Local residents and various organizations protested against the burial due to the serious nature of the allegations against Shinde.
Shinde was shot dead on September 23 while being transported from Taloja Jail to Badlapur for questioning related to a case filed by his former wife. The tragic incident unfolded when Shinde allegedly snatched an Assistant Police Inspector’s firearm during the escort and fired, injuring the officer. In response, another officer from the escort team shot Shinde.
The burial of Shinde’s body was a difficult and controversial process. It remained in the morgue at Kalwa Civil Hospital for several days as police and family members struggled to find a suitable burial site. The situation was further aggravated by protests from groups like the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and the Shiv Sena, who opposed the burial due to the heinous allegations against Shinde.
Shinde had been arrested on August 17 for allegedly sexually assaulting two minor girls at a school in Badlapur just days before his death. The allegations against him sent shockwaves through the community, and his death further inflamed public anger and outrage.
In a further twist to this tragic story, Anna Shinde, the father of the deceased accused, has sought police protection for himself and his family, claiming they are receiving threats. In a letter addressed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, state DGP Rashmi Shukla, and Navi Mumbai Police Commissioner Milind Bharambe, Anna Shinde alleged his son was killed in a conspiracy for political gains. He stated that his family, lawyer Amit Katarnavre, and the latter’s family have been receiving threats and urged authorities to provide police protection.
The Badlapur sexual assault case has become a complex and sensitive issue, raising important questions about justice, safety, and the role of the police. As the investigation continues, the community awaits answers and seeks justice for the victims while grappling with the tragic events that have unfolded.
