Badlapur rape accused's mother challenges police version on son's death
The mother of Akshay Shinde, a 24-year-old school sweeper accused of raping two nursery girls in Maharashtra's Badlapur, has disputed the police account of events leading to his death in custody. The police claimed that Shinde snatched a constable's gun and shot an officer inside the van, leading to his injury from retaliatory firing. However, Shinde's family alleges that he was coerced into confessing his involvement in the rape case and questions how he could fire at officers.
Family alleges conspiracy
Shinde's mother and uncle told reporters, "My son was afraid of bursting crackers and crossing the road. How can he shoot at policemen." They also alleged that the police obtained a confessional statement from him under duress. The family has demanded an inquiry into his killing, alleging a conspiracy involving the police and school management. Videos from Monday night showed them demanding to see Shinde's body, which was denied by the police.
High-level probe ordered into Shinde's death
The opposition in Maharashtra has also suggested that Shinde was killed in an "encounter." In response to these allegations, a high-level investigation has been initiated. Shinde's family claimed he informed them about being physically abused by the police and requested money through a note. They insist he was not suffering from depression and demand an investigation into the school management's role as well.
Shinde's arrest
Shinde was arrested in August following a sexual assault case involving two nursery girls that triggered widespread public protest. The shooting incident occurred on Monday when officers from Badlapur went to Taloja jail to take custody of Shinde for a new rape and assault case filed by his former wife. As the police team carrying Shinde neared Mumbra bypass, he allegedly snatched a constable's gun and opened fire at the escorting cops, leading to his injury from retaliatory firing.
