New Delhi: The sexual assault of two four-year-old girls by a school janitor has triggered widespread outrage in Maharashtra’s Thane district, leading to significant public protests.
Demonstrations erupted at Badlapur railway station on Tuesday, resulting in the suspension of local train services and the blockage of railway tracks. Multiple organizations have called for a bandh in Badlapur to protest the incident.
The assault came to light when one of the young victims confided in her grandmother, who then discussed the matter with the other girl’s family. It was revealed that both girls had developed a fear of attending school. Following a medical examination, a private doctor confirmed that the children had been sexually abused.
However, the victims’ families expressed dissatisfaction with the police, claiming that the First Information Report (FIR) was not registered until over 12 hours after the complaint was made, only after intervention from the District Women and Child Welfare Department.
Here are the latest developments:
Maharashtra Government Forms SIT
In response to the ongoing protests, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has ordered a high-level investigation, forming a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the case thoroughly. He assured strict action against those found guilty, including the school where the incident occurred. The state government is also working to expedite the legal process by moving the case to a fast-track court.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the SIT, led by Inspector General of Police Arti Singh, will spearhead the investigation. The Thane Police Commissioner has been instructed to submit a proposal by the end of the day to transfer the case to a fast-track court.
Three Badlapur Police Officers Suspended
Three police officials, including a senior inspector, have been suspended for alleged negligence in handling the case. Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis confirmed the suspension orders on social media, emphasizing accountability.
Railway Disruptions and Arrangements for Commuters
The ‘rail roko’ protest at Badlapur station led to the diversion of 12 long-distance trains via alternative routes, while authorities arranged buses for stranded passengers. Additionally, 30 suburban trains were partially canceled as protestors, including many women, blocked the tracks, causing local train services between Ambernath and Karjat stations to be suspended.
The situation escalated as some protestors vandalized the school where the alleged assault took place and engaged in stone-pelting at the Badlapur railway station.
Schools to Establish Vishakha Committees
School Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar announced the formation of ‘Vishakha Committees’ at schools, ensuring a platform for students, particularly girls in grades 9 through 12, to voice grievances. The minister warned that schools with non-functional CCTV cameras would face strict action.
The establishment of these internal committees is in line with the Supreme Court’s guidelines in the landmark ‘Vishakha’ judgment, which mandates addressing workplace sexual harassment complaints.
NHRC Demands Detailed Report from Maharashtra Authorities
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of the case, issuing notices to the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police of Maharashtra, seeking a comprehensive report within two weeks.
The NHRC has demanded clarification on the reported 12-hour delay in registering the FIR and has called for a thorough investigation into this aspect. The Commission has also requested updates on the health and well-being of the victims, including details on any counseling or support services provided by the authorities or the school.
Uddhav Thackeray Criticizes State Government
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray criticized the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government, pointing out the contradiction between their Mukhyamantri Ladki Bahin scheme and the safety of young girls. He also alleged that the school where the incident occurred has connections to BJP leaders and called for swift justice for the victims through a fast-tracked legal process.