In response to public outrage over the sexual assault of two Class IV girls in Badlapur, Maharashtra, the state government has proposed the installation of panic buttons in schools and hostels to enhance safety. Maharashtra Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar announced that, similar to the existing CCTV systems, panic buttons could be implemented in educational institutions and hostels. He emphasized that this advanced technology aims to bolster security.
Kesarkar also noted that an investigation led by the deputy director of the Mumbai region is underway. The investigation team, involving various departments, is scrutinizing the case. The police will determine the appropriate legal actions, and those found negligent will face consequences.
The assault occurred on August 16, when two four-year-old girls were allegedly attacked by a 23-year-old cleaning staff member, Akshay Shinde, inside their school’s toilet. Shinde has been arrested following an FIR.
A report by the Women and Child Welfare Department and the Education Ministry has been submitted to Kesarkar for further review. This report is part of the ongoing investigation, which includes an FIR against school authorities for failing to report the abuse as required by Section 19 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has recorded statements from the victims and their families and has requested a Test Identification Parade (TI Parade), to be supervised by an Executive Magistrate, for the victims to identify Shinde. The SIT is also examining the accused’s digital activities and has recorded statements from Shinde’s two wives, with another expected soon. Shinde remains in judicial custody for 14 days, as ordered by the Kalyan court.