Bombay High Court Responds to Badlapur Sexual Abuse Case

The Bombay High Court has initiated suo motu proceedings regarding the alleged sexual assault of two kindergarten girls at a Badlapur school. A bench comprising Justices Revati Mohite-Dere and Prithviraj Chavan is set to hear the case today, following accusations that the school administration failed to act promptly against the accused, a 23-year-old male sweeper. Parents reported being made to wait over 12 hours to file a First Information Report (FIR). The incident, which occurred in the school’s toilet, came to light when one of the victims complained of pain and revealed the abuse to her parents. A local doctor confirmed the assault on both girls. The accused, who had been employed as a cleaning staff member since August 1, has been charged under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act. He is currently in police custody until August 26. In response to the incident, the government has ordered a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe led by senior IPS officer Arti Singh. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has promised swift action against the school, emphasizing that the case will be fast-tracked and justice will be served. Noted criminal advocate Ujjwal Nikam has been appointed as the special public prosecutor. Additionally, the school management has suspended the principal, a class teacher, and a female attendant involved in the incident. The state government has also suspended three police officials, including a senior inspector, for alleged negligence in handling the case.