Wed Sep 25 08:32:08 UTC 2024: ## Bombay High Court Questions Badlapur Encounter, Orders Probe into Death of Accused

The Bombay High Court on Wednesday expressed serious doubts about the police’s narrative of an encounter killing of Akshay Shinde, the accused in the Badlapur school sexual abuse case. The court questioned the police’s encounter theory, stating that prima facie it seems there is foul play.

During a hearing on Shinde’s father’s plea, the court questioned the police’s tactics, including why Shinde was not handcuffed while being transported in a police vehicle and why the police did not attempt to overpower him before resorting to a shootout. The court also expressed confusion over the lack of CID officers at the hearing, despite the investigation being transferred to them yesterday.

The bench has ordered the collection of Call Data Records (CDRs) of the accused and the driver of the vehicle, an ex-serviceman. The court also demanded a fair and impartial investigation into Shinde’s death, emphasizing the need to collect handwash evidence.

The hearing has been adjourned until next Thursday.

Meanwhile, former Maharashtra home minister Anil Deshmukh has also expressed suspicion about the encounter, stating that the entire matter seems suspicious and that the owner of the school, a senior BJP leader, should also be investigated.

The court has also taken suo motu cognizance of the incident and is monitoring the probe. The state government has issued an updated checklist for schools seeking recognition, including mandatory CCTV installation, complaint boxes, and safety committees. Legal experts have also called for a magisterial inquiry into Shinde’s death, as per the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).

The Bombay High Court’s questioning of the police’s encounter theory has brought renewed attention to the case and raised concerns about due process and justice for the victims. The court’s intervention has also highlighted the need for a transparent and thorough investigation into Shinde’s death.

Read More