Maharashtra Erupts in Protest Over Badlapur Sexual Abuse Case

A local court extended the police custody of a man accused of sexually abusing two girls at a Badlapur school. Mass protests erupted, leading to arrests and injuries. The opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi demanded a statewide bandh. In response, officials announced enhanced security measures and ordered the installation of CCTV cameras in all schools.

A local court on Wednesday extended till August 26 the police custody of the man arrested for allegedly sexually abusing two girls at a school in Badlapur town of Thane district, Maharashtra.

The accused, an attendant at the school, was produced before a magistrate at Kalyan in Thane district amid elaborate security arrangements.

In response to the alleged assault, the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) called for a 'Maharashtra bandh' on August 24 to protest against the incident, which has sparked significant public outrage.

Amid the escalating tensions, the Maharashtra education department mandated the installation of CCTV cameras in all schools within a month. Meanwhile, the Kalyan Bar Association urged its members not to represent the accused.

The protests turned violent as anti-social elements took advantage of the situation, leading to stone-pelting and injuries to police personnel. Internet services in Badlapur were suspended and dozens were arrested following the unrest.

Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the formation of a special investigation team to probe the incident, while Chief Minister Eknath Shinde asserted that no guilty party would be spared. However, accusations of political manipulation have arisen, with claims that the protests were intended to malign the state government.

Amidst the tensions, MVA allies declared their participation in the bandh, criticizing the BJP-led government's handling of women's safety issues. NCP leader Supriya Sule demanded the resignation of Fadnavis and accused the state government of neglecting common people's concerns.