![[Badlapur Sexual Assault Case] "How Can the State Take Custodial Death So Lightly?": HC Slams CID for Negligent Probe into Killing of Accused](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/image-4-1.png?fit=690%2C388&ssl=1)
Today, On 2nd December, The Bombay High Court reprimanded the CID for its casual approach in investigating the murder of an accused in the Badlapur sexual assault case. The court expressed concern over the lack of seriousness in probing such a grave matter. It highlighted the importance of thorough investigations to ensure justice for all parties involved.
Mumbai: The Bombay High Court criticized the state Crime Investigation Department (CID) for treating the investigation into the shooting death of Akshay Shinde, accused in a school sexual assault case, with “lightness.”
A division bench comprising Justices Revati Mohite Dere and Prithviraj Chavan emphasized the necessity for a thorough investigation, expressing concerns that the CID’s actions suggest it may not be forthcoming with all relevant information to the magistrate overseeing the inquiry.
Shinde, 24, had been arrested in August for allegedly assaulting two minor girls in Badlapur, Maharashtra. He was shot by police during an incident on September 24. The court sarcastically noted that cases are typically transferred to the CID due to their expertise.
The judges were frustrated by apparent inconsistencies in the investigation and the documentation submitted to the magistrate.
Questioning the CID’s commitment to the investigation, they stated,
“How can the state CID take it so lightly? This is a matter that concerns custodial death,”
They pointed out the lack of collected medical documents and suggested that the CID might be intentionally withholding information, stating,
“Don’t test our patience now.”
The court highlighted the importance of fairness in investigations, stating that both accused individuals and their families have rights. The CID informed the court that all remaining documents would be submitted within a week.
The case scheduled for further hearing on January 20, 2025, by which time the magistrate must provide a report.
According to police accounts, Shinde allegedly seized a firearm from an officer while being transported, fired shots in the police van, and was subsequently shot by a police officer in response.
Shinde’s father has filed a petition claiming his son was killed in a staged encounter.
The Badlapur sexual assault case involves a serious criminal incident in which a young woman was allegedly sexually assaulted. The accused in the case was later killed while in custody. The circumstances surrounding the death have raised significant concerns, especially regarding the role of law enforcement and the handling of the investigation.
The CID (Criminal Investigation Department) assigned to investigate the case, including the suspicious custodial death. However, the Bombay High Court criticized the CID for its negligent approach in investigating the killing, emphasizing the gravity of custodial deaths and the need for accountability in such matters. The court expressed alarm that the state seemed to treat the death lightly, despite the serious implications for human rights and the justice system.
This case has brought to light the issue of police misconduct, judicial oversight, and the lack of transparency in investigations. The public outcry over the handling of the case has led to calls for legal reform and stricter measures to ensure that victim rights are upheld, and justice is delivered effectively.
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