The recent incident involving the death of Akshay Shinde, accused of sexually assaulting two minors, has ignited a political firestorm in Maharashtra. Shinde, who worked as a sweeper at a Badlapur school, died under controversial circumstances while in police custody on September 23. The Maharashtra government claims that the police acted in self-defence, but Shinde’s family alleges foul play, calling it an ‘encounter’ and demanding justice.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray has voiced strong opinions on the matter, stating, “Justice being served was important and after that, the accused should be given a death sentence. But yesterday’s incident has raised a lot of questions… For such a thing to happen is shameful. Every woman should be safe.” His comments have added fuel to the already raging controversy.
The incident has led to widespread calls for a judicial probe, with opposition parties demanding a thorough investigation. Shinde’s body was taken to JJ Hospital for a post-mortem, where his family expressed their suspicions, claiming that the police had beaten him in custody and coerced him into writing something unknown. His mother, in a heart-wrenching statement, said, “They killed him,” questioning how her son, who feared simple things like bursting crackers and crossing roads, could have snatched a policeman’s gun and opened fire.
Thane police commissioner Ashutosh Dumbre has established an eight-member inquiry committee to investigate the incident. The panel, led by Additional Police Commissioner Punjabrao Ugle, will examine the circumstances leading to Shinde’s death, focusing on the police’s claim of self-defence.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis have supported the police’s account, stating that officers acted in self-defence after Shinde fired at them. Fadnavis, who also holds the home ministry portfolio, dismissed opposition criticism, stating that it was wrong to question the police when they were trying to save lives.
This incident has not only raised questions about police conduct but also highlighted the deep political divides in Maharashtra, with leaders like Aaditya Thackeray pushing for accountability and justice.
