Lagatar24 Desk
Mumbai: The Bombay High Court on Friday granted an urgent hearing in the case of Akshay Shinde, the accused in the Badlapur minors’ sexual assault case who was shot dead by the Thane Police in an alleged “fake” encounter. The plea, filed by Shinde’s father, seeks land for his son’s burial and police protection for the family during the last rites, citing threats to their safety.
The court, consisting of Justice Revati Mohite Dere and Justice MM Sathaye, will hear the petition at 1 pm, reports Bar and Bench. Shinde’s family has requested assistance from the Ambernath municipal council to find a burial site, while also seeking security due to threats made against them.
Family Demands Burial Site and Protection
Amar Shinde, Akshay’s uncle, told the media that the family is struggling to secure a burial site for the 24-year-old, who had expressed his desire to be buried rather than cremated. The family has asked for police protection for the last rites, citing potential danger to Akshay’s parents and their lawyer.
On Wednesday, Akshay’s father informed the court that the family was ready to claim the body but had encountered difficulties finding a suitable burial location. The public prosecutor assured the court that a Thane crime branch officerwould help facilitate the necessary arrangements.
Bombay High Court’s Concerns
The court raised concerns about the circumstances of the police shooting, suggesting that the incident may have been avoidable. Justice Revati Mohite Dere and Justice Prithviraj Chavan posed critical questions regarding the shootout and the police’s response, emphasizing the need for a fair and impartial investigation.
Akshay Shinde’s father challenged the police’s claim that his son had fired on officers while being transported for questioning, which led to his death in retaliatory fire. The family has alleged that he was killed in a “fake encounter” and has demanded a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the case.
Background of the Case
Akshay Shinde, 24, was arrested last month for allegedly sexually assaulting two kindergarten girls at a school in Badlapur. He was shot and killed earlier this week while being transported for further questioning in connection with the case. The incident has sparked controversy, with some accusing the police of misconduct.
Meanwhile, Advocate Amit Katarnavre, representing Shinde’s family, has criticised the lack of transparency surrounding the charge sheet. He noted that no copy had been provided to the family, leaving questions about Akshay’s exact role in the crime unanswered.
