A wave of public outrage has erupted in Badlapur, Thane, after the shocking revelation of an alleged sexual assault on two kindergarten students at a local school. The incident has sparked widespread protests, leading to the blockage of railway tracks and a strong response from the state government.
The Incident:
The horrifying incident came to light when two young girls, aged three and four, reported pain in their private parts after attending school. The parents of one of the victims, concerned by their daughter’s distress, questioned her and discovered that she had been sexually assaulted by a male attendant at the school. The accused, 23-year-old Akshay Shinde, was reportedly employed on a contractual basis as a cleaner. It was revealed that the assault occurred when the girls went to use the toilet, a space shockingly unmonitored by female staff, a glaring oversight by the school administration.
Public Outcry:
As news of the assault spread, parents and local citizens were overcome with anger and fear for the safety of their children. On Tuesday, they stormed the school, expressing their fury by vandalizing the premises. The protests quickly escalated, with demonstrators blocking railway tracks at Badlapur railway station, disrupting train services from as early as 8:30 am. The protest turned violent at points, with some agitators hurling stones, but the situation was eventually brought under control by the police.
Government Response:
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has taken swift action in response to the incident. He has ordered the police to impose charges of attempted rape against the accused, alongside provisions under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the Chief Minister announced that a special public prosecutor would be appointed to fast-track the case, ensuring that justice is served promptly.
School Management Under Scrutiny:
The school management has also come under intense scrutiny following the incident. The principal, a class teacher, and a female attendant have been suspended as investigations continue. The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) has warned of strict legal action if the school’s management is found negligent or complicit in the crime. Additionally, the CMO has called for a thorough review of the implementation of Sakhi Savitri committees in schools, which are intended to protect and support students.
Conclusion:
The Badlapur incident has sent shockwaves through the community, igniting a conversation about the safety of children in educational institutions. As protests continue and investigations proceed, the public is demanding accountability and swift justice for the victims. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and proper oversight in schools to protect the most vulnerable members of society.
