In a significant move by the Maharashtra government, renowned lawyer Ujjwal Nikam has been appointed as the special public prosecutor in the highly sensitive Badlapur School Case, which involves a heinous sexual assault that has shaken the local community. The announcement was made by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday, as public outrage continues to grow over the incident.
Background of the Case
The incident, which has led to widespread protests and anger in Badlapur, involves the sexual abuse of children at a local school. The accused was arrested by the police, and on Wednesday, a local court extended his police custody until August 26th, allowing for further investigation.
Ujjwal Nikam’s Appointment and Role
Devendra Fadnavis announced that Ujjwal Nikam, one of India’s most high-profile and successful prosecutors, would be leading the prosecution in this case. Known for handling several landmark cases, including the 1993 Bombay bomb blasts and the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, Nikam’s appointment is seen as a move to ensure that the case is handled with the utmost seriousness and efficiency.
Fadnavis also stated that a chargesheet in the case would be filed immediately and that the matter would be expedited in a fast-track court. Nikam, commenting on his new role, stated that his work would commence once the chargesheet is filed. He emphasized that while the public’s anger is understandable, it is also essential that the accused receive a fair trial.
Protests and Government Response
The Badlapur School Case has ignited significant public outcry, leading to massive protests that escalated on Tuesday. Parents of the victims, along with local citizens, blocked railway tracks at Badlapur station and ransacked a local police station, demanding swift and stringent action against the accused. The protests turned violent, resulting in injuries to 25 police officials due to stone pelting, and at least 72 individuals were arrested in connection with the unrest.
The protests have been described by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as ‘politically motivated,’ with allegations that outsiders were involved in the demonstrations. Shinde stated that despite assurances from state minister Girish Mahajan that action would be taken and that the protesters’ demands had been met, the demonstrators refused to disperse, leading to further tension.
In response to the violence and the growing unrest, the Maharashtra government established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by senior IPS officer Arti Singh to thoroughly probe the incident. This move is intended to ensure a transparent and comprehensive investigation into the case.
Allegations of Delayed Action
Amidst the escalating situation, Senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut alleged that the police were pressured not to file an FIR promptly. He also questioned why the Supreme Court had not taken notice of the incident. Parents of the victims echoed these concerns, claiming that they were forced to wait for nearly 12 hours before the FIR was finally registered, further fueling public anger.
Conclusion
The Badlapur School Case has become a focal point of public outrage, with demands for justice resonating across the region. The appointment of Ujjwal Nikam as the special public prosecutor, along with the government’s decision to expedite the legal process and establish a SIT, indicates a strong commitment to ensuring that justice is served. However, the case also highlights deep-seated frustrations with the handling of such sensitive matters and the broader implications for law enforcement and governance in Maharashtra. As the case progresses, all eyes will be on the legal proceedings and the government’s response to this tragic incident.