Wed Sep 25 04:16:07 UTC 2024: ## Opposition Alleges “Fake Encounter” in Badlapur Sexual Assault Case, Ruling Party Claims Self-Defense

**Thane, India:** The death of the accused in the Badlapur sexual assault case has sparked a fierce political battle, with the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alleging a “fake encounter” aimed at protecting individuals close to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The ruling Mahayuti coalition, however, maintains that the accused was killed by police in self-defense.

The accused, a 23-year-old janitor, was arrested last month for allegedly sexually assaulting two four-year-old girls at a school in Badlapur. He was reportedly shot dead on Monday while being transported to Thane, after he allegedly snatched a police officer’s weapon and opened fire.

Congress leader and former Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan accused the police of orchestrating a “fake encounter” to shield “certain people” and demanded Fadnavis’ resignation. He questioned the police’s claim that the accused, handcuffed and surrounded by officers, managed to grab the officer’s weapon and fire shots.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut echoed Chavan’s skepticism, pointing out the implausibility of the accused, a janitor, successfully firing a locked revolver while under police escort. He further alleged that the government was protecting other individuals connected to the school where the assault took place.

The ruling BJP, however, vehemently defended the police action, claiming that they were forced to fire in self-defense after the accused opened fire on them. BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar criticized the opposition for expressing sympathy for the accused and questioned their trust in the Maharashtra police.

While the NCP, led by Ajit Pawar, expressed belief in the police’s account, several opposition leaders raised doubts about the circumstances surrounding the accused’s death, highlighting inconsistencies and calling for a thorough investigation.

The case has sparked outrage and protests, demanding justice for the victims and raising questions about the role of the police and the government’s handling of the case. The incident has also sparked a debate about the use of force by the police and the need for transparency in such investigations.

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