The death of Akshay Shinde, accused in the horrific Badlapur sexual assault case, has plunged the region into turmoil and ignited a wave of controversy. Shinde, who was facing charges of sexually assaulting two minor girls at a school in Badlapur, was shot and killed by police on Monday evening. The incident has triggered widespread outrage, with many questioning the circumstances surrounding his death and alleging an extrajudicial killing.
Adding to the mounting pressure, the Maharashtra Crime Investigation Department (CID) has announced that it will investigate the incident, a move that comes in the wake of the family’s strong denial of the police’s claim that Shinde fired upon an officer first. Shinde’s family has vehemently disputed this version of events, demanding a thorough investigation to uncover the truth behind his death.
A team of forensic experts has already examined the police vehicle where Shinde was allegedly shot, while CID officials will now visit the site of the shooting, record statements from police personnel present during the incident, and also speak to Shinde’s parents.
The post-mortem, conducted in-camera at the state-run J.J. Hospital in Mumbai, will involve expert doctors to ensure transparency and eliminate any doubts surrounding the cause of death.
Adding fuel to the fire, Shiv Sena UBT leader Aaditya Thackeray has raised several pointed questions regarding the case, questioning the role of the school trustees and the local BJP-Mindhe regime in the unfolding events. He has also questioned the police’s handling of the case, highlighting the delayed registration of the victim’s complaint and the subsequent crackdown on protesters who demanded justice.
Meanwhile, Special Public Prosecutor and BJP leader Ujjwal Nikam has defended the police action, stating that Shinde was facing serious charges and had potentially resorted to violence due to psychological distress. He also acknowledged the political undercurrents surrounding the case, urging for calm and restraint until the judicial inquiry is concluded.
The case has highlighted a complex interplay of factors, including the severity of the crime, the handling of the investigation, and the role of political affiliations in influencing the narrative. With the CID investigation underway, the coming days will be crucial in shedding light on the truth behind Shinde’s death and ensuring justice is served. The case serves as a stark reminder of the need for a robust and transparent justice system, particularly when dealing with sensitive issues like sexual assault and potential police misconduct.
