Tue Sep 24 18:48:10 UTC 2024: ## Suspect Shot Dead in Police Custody Sparks Controversy in Mumbai

**Mumbai:** The death of Akshay Shinde (24), a prime suspect in a case involving the alleged snatching of a police officer’s gun, has sparked controversy after he was shot dead by police in an alleged “encounter” while being escorted from Taloja Jail to Badlapur for investigations.

Shinde was shot inside a police van near the Mumbra Bypass on Tuesday, leading to immediate calls for an independent investigation. The Thane police commissioner, Ashutosh Dumbre, ordered an eight-member inquiry committee, headed by Additional Commissioner of Police Punjabrao Ugle, to probe the incident.

Shinde’s parents, Anna and Alka Shinde, have vehemently denied the police version of events, alleging foul play and demanding a thorough investigation. “The police have killed our child,” Alka Shinde said, questioning how a young man afraid of fireworks and crossing the road could suddenly turn violent and shoot at police officers.

The family’s refusal to accept the police’s claim of self-defense has further fueled the controversy. They also expressed suspicions about the school management involved in the case, suggesting their son may have been pressured to write a confession.

While the Mumbra Police have registered an accidental death report, citing self-defense, the State-CID has taken over the investigation as per protocol. A separate case has also been lodged against Shinde under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita and Arms Act for the alleged gun snatching and firing incident.

The case has garnered significant attention, with the family’s allegations of foul play raising serious questions about the circumstances surrounding Shinde’s death. The independent inquiry will need to shed light on the events leading up to the encounter and determine whether the police action was justified.

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