Masterminds of Custodial Death of Akshay Shinde Remain Free

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Magistrate Inquiry Finds Five Policemen Responsible

A magistrate’s inquiry has held five policemen accountable for the custodial death of Akshay Shinde, who was accused in the Badlapur school sexual assault case. The inquiry report was submitted to the Bombay High Court on Monday during the hearing of a petition filed by Shinde’s father, Anna Shinde, who alleged his son was killed in a fake encounter.

Details of the Inquiry Report

The report named the following officers responsible for Shinde’s death:
– Inspector Sanjay Shinde (Thane Crime Branch)
– Assistant Police Inspector Nilesh More
– Head Constables Abhijeet More and Harish Tawade
A Police Driver (Name Withheld)

The court emphasized that the government must file a First Information Report (FIR) and initiate a proper investigation.

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Court’s Remarks on the Inquiry

A division bench of Justices Revati Mohite Dere and Neela Gokhale reviewed the report and expressed concerns over the delay in taking action.
– “The magistrate has concluded that five cops are responsible for the death of Akshay Shinde,” noted the court.
– The bench highlighted that as per the law, an FIR must be registered based on the magistrate’s findings.
– It directed the government to decide on the investigating agency and report back within two weeks.

Circumstances of Akshay Shinde’s Death

Akshay Shinde, a 24-year-old school attendant, was arrested in August 2024 for allegedly sexually assaulting two minor girls in a school toilet in Badlapur.
– In September, he was killed during an alleged police shootout while being transported from Taloja prison for questioning.
– Police claimed Shinde attempted to snatch a firearm and was killed in retaliatory firing.

The magistrate’s report, however, has contradicted this account, indicating police culpability in his death.

Next Steps

The court has directed public prosecutor Hiten Venegaonkar to inform the bench within two weeks regarding the agency that will handle the investigation. Additionally, a copy of the inquiry report has been provided to Anna Shinde and the prosecution for further proceedings.

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This case highlights concerns about custodial violence and the lack of accountability within law enforcement agencies. The court’s intervention is seen as a critical step toward justice for Akshay Shinde’s family.