Special Prosecutor Appointed in Badlapur Sexual Assault Case as Maharashtra Government Acts Swiftly

Senior lawyer Ujjwal Nikam has agreed to serve as Special Public Prosecutor for the Badlapur sexual assault case. Nikam expressed confidence in a prompt chargesheet filing and timely trial. The incident led to massive protests, arrests, and disruptions in railway services, but normalcy has been restored.

Senior lawyer Ujjwal Nikam, appointed as Special Public Prosecutor in the Badlapur sexual assault case, expressed confidence that the chargesheet would be filed shortly and the trial completed within the stipulated period. Nikam confirmed receiving oral communication from Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis requesting his consent due to the case’s severity.

“I have consented to act as a special PP in this case. Although I am yet to receive the official notification, I am optimistic the investigating agency will file the chargesheet soon. Upon completion, my role will commence,” Nikam told ANI. Known for handling high-profile cases, Nikam remarked on the brutality of the incident, acknowledging public anger that led to a 10-hour rail roko andolan protest.

Nikam praised the police for managing the situation, emphasizing the importance of the rule of law and fair trial for the accused. He reiterated confidence in a timely chargesheet and trial completion.

The Maharashtra government has established a Special Investigation Team for this case. On Tuesday, police employed lathi-charge to disperse protestors at Badlapur railway station, resulting in diversion and partial cancellation of numerous train services. Despite disruptions, services resumed late at night post-dispersal.

Following the massive protests, Maharashtra Police made several arrests and registered FIRs connected to the stone-pelting, train disruptions, and lathi-charge incidents. Officials reported that normalcy has now been restored.