Opposition Challenges Police Account in Badlapur Encounter Case

The Maharashtra government has tasked the CID with investigating the police encounter killing of Akshay Shinde, accused of sexual assault. Opposition leaders, including Jitendra Awhad and Anil Deshmukh, have questioned the police's narrative, citing implausibility. Shinde’s family has also raised doubts, claiming police misconduct during custody.

The Maharashtra government has assigned the Crime Investigation Department (CID) to investigate the controversial encounter killing of Akshay Shinde, the accused in a Badlapur sexual assault case. Shinde was shot dead by police after allegedly attempting to snatch a firearm during transport for questioning. This incident has sparked significant backlash from opposition leaders, who question the police's narrative.

Jitendra Awhad, a member of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly from the NCP, dismissed the police's account as "baseless," challenging how a handcuffed individual could overpower multiple officers. “How can a handcuffed accused snatch a revolver and fire at the police?” he questioned. Former home minister Anil Deshmukh echoed these concerns, emphasizing the improbability of Shinde firing a weapon with both hands restrained.

The incident occurred while Shinde, 24, was being transported by police related to allegations made by his ex-wife. Shinde had previously been arrested for sexually assaulting two minors at a local school, which reportedly belongs to a BJP leader, adding another layer of political complexity to the case.

Family members of the deceased have voiced their skepticism about the official story. Shinde's mother and uncle stated that the police coerced him into signing a confession and claimed he had been subjected to beatings while in custody. They insisted he would not have been capable of shooting at the officers due to his fearful nature.

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As CID officials prepare to investigate, the case has raised serious questions about police conduct and accountability, with calls for a thorough review from various political figures and community members.