Controversial Encounter Sparks Political Accusations in Maharashtra

The killing of Akshay Shinde, accused of sexually assaulting two minor girls, in a police encounter has triggered political accusations in Maharashtra. Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders claim the encounter was staged to protect BJP-affiliated school management. The ruling Shiv Sena refutes this, defending police actions as self-defense.

The killing of Akshay Shinde, accused of sexually assaulting two minor girls, in a police encounter has ignited a political firestorm in Maharashtra. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut alleged on Tuesday that the encounter was orchestrated to protect the BJP-affiliated Badlapur school management.

Raut questioned the circumstances, challenging the narrative that a janitor could wrestle a gun from a policeman and fire it. He hinted at a larger conspiracy, suggesting that the evidence was being erased to shield influential figures connected to the school. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis maintain that the police acted in self-defense during the incident.

Shiv Sena spokesperson Naresh Mhaske countered, defending the police actions and criticizing the opposition for what he described as politically motivated accusations. The political divide continues to deepen as both sides remain entrenched in their respective narratives about the controversial encounter.

(With inputs from agencies.)