Maharashtra Minister Raises Alarm Over Missing CCTV Footage in Badlapur School Assault Case

Maharashtra Minister Deepak Kesarkar highlights the disappearance of 15 days' worth of CCTV footage from a school in Badlapur, where two minor girls were allegedly sexually assaulted. Kesarkar emphasized the need for an investigation and suggested the installation of panic buttons in schools and hostels for enhanced safety.

Maharashtra Minister and Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar has raised concerns over the missing CCTV footage from the Badlapur school where two minor girls were allegedly sexually assaulted. 'The CCTV footage of the last 15 days is missing from the school. It is critical to investigate why and what the motive behind this disappearance is,' Kesarkar said.

Kesarkar proposed integrating panic buttons in schools and hostels to bolster security. 'Just like CCTVs, panic buttons can also be installed. This is an advanced technology for immediate alerts,' he noted during a press conference in Mumbai.

Under the supervision of the deputy director of the Mumbai region, a multi-departmental investigation team has been probing the incident. 'The police will determine the applicable sections for the cases. Those found negligent will be identified as co-accused and face consequences,' emphasized the Maharashtra Education Minister. The reports by the Women and Child Welfare Department and the Education Ministry have been submitted to Kesarkar.

The special investigation team (SIT) for Badlapur has filed an FIR against the school authorities under Section 19 of the POCSO Act for failing to report the incident to the police. The alleged sexual assault of two fourth-grade girls at the school has sparked widespread outrage, leading to the arrest of a school attendant on August 17.

(With inputs from agencies.)