Akshay Shinde, accused of exploiting young girls at a school in Badlapur, was killed in a police encounter. Following the encounter, opposition leaders have raised questions about police actions, while Akshay's family has made serious accusations against the police, claiming he was murdered as part of a conspiracy.
The family claimed that Akshay had reported being brutally beaten by the police last Monday and refused to claim his body until justice is served.
Talking to a news outlet, Akshay Shinde's mother and uncle said, 'Akshay Shinde was murdered in a conspiracy, and we suspect the school administration and the police are behind it. We won’t take his body until a proper investigation is conducted and the guilty are punished.' Akshay's mother said that he told her about police abuse when she met him the previous Monday.
Police's Theory
Providing information about the encounter, police stated that Akshay Shinde snatched a policeman’s revolver and fired at the team while being transported in a police vehicle. Two officers were injured before the police retaliated, resulting in Akshay being shot. He was taken to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Police said the incident occurred while Akshay was being moved from Taloja Prison.
Source: aajtak
Opposition Attacks the Government
Former Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh questioned how Akshay Shinde could fire a gun if his hands were tied. He associated the school involved with RSS-BJP members and claimed efforts to suppress the incident have been ongoing from the start.
Deshmukh demanded an investigation by a retired High Court judge to uncover the truth.
Vijay Waddettayar, leader of the opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly, posted on X saying, 'This incident should be investigated judicially to bring the truth to light. Akshay Shinde’s shooting has sparked concerns about evidence being destroyed. How did he access a gun while in police custody? These questions must be answered.' He pointed out the lack of action against the directors of the school linked to the BJP.
The leader insisted on a judicial inquiry to ensure transparency and accountability.
'Changing Police Narratives'
Former Maharashtra CM and Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan criticized the shifting stories from the police, highlighting inconsistencies and expressing suspicions of efforts to protect high-ranking officials. 'An encounter is supposed to deal with terrorists and underworld criminals, not with someone like Akshay,' he said, suggesting a possible misuse of power.
He further added, 'This case might involve influential people trying to cover up their tracks by silencing Akshay. The Chief Justice of India should take suo motu cognizance of this case.'
Chavan emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the police force, which once held national respect.
'Judiciary Should Investigate Case'
Congress leader Nana Patole called for a judicial investigation, arguing that justice must be served for the victims and the truth uncovered. He questioned the role of school representatives linked to the BJP-RSS and asserted that no accused should be spared.
Police Acted in Self-Defense: CM Shinde
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde described the incident, explaining that Akshay Shinde, accused in the Badlapur case and facing allegations from his first wife, had fired at officer Nilesh More, injuring him. The police acted in self-defense during their response. Further investigation findings are awaited.
Deputy CM's Statement
Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis recounted the events, noting that Akshay Shinde had attempted to escape by snatching a police revolver and opening fire, prompting the police to retaliate in self-defense.
'Support Maharashtra Police'
The encounter of an accused who exploited young girls in Badlapur is seen as a positive action by many. Criticizing those who question the encounter, it is emphasized that support should be extended to the police instead of sympathizing with a rapist.
The Case So Far
Akshay Shinde was arrested for sexually exploiting two school girls in Badlapur. Following the revelation, there were widespread protests, including demonstrations by parents and local residents, leading to vandalism and stone-pelting during a 'rail roko' protest at the local railway station. An SIT is investigating the incident.
