Anil Borade| Bureau North Maharashtra
Dhule : A horrifying incident has shaken Maharashtra as a 3-year-old girl from Sonagir village in Dhule district was brutally sexually assaulted by her cousin uncle right outside her home. The accused, identified as Mayur Bapu Mali, was arrested immediately after the crime, but villagers are demanding swift and harsh justice.
On the occasion of Vijayadashami, thousands of villagers, including men, women, youth, and elders, took to the streets in a massive protest rally. With slogans like “Accused must be hanged” and “No mercy for rapists”, the march moved through major parts of Sonagir before reaching the local police station.
At the police station, villagers submitted a memorandum demanding:
Death penalty for the accused under POCSO Act.
Fast-track trial with judgment within two months.
Complete security, medical and legal aid for the victim’s family.
No lawyer should represent the accused.
Strict punishment to set a deterrent for future crimes.
Villagers further declared a Dhule District Bandh on October 4 in solidarity with the victim. Many leaders and social activists joined the protest, expressing solidarity with the victim’s family and demanding the government ensure justice without delay.
This shocking case has reignited the debate on child safety and the urgent need for fast-track justice in heinous crimes against minors.
