Maharashtra Bandh Called in Response to Badlapur Sexual Assault Case

Outrage Across Maharashtra: Bandh Announced for August 24 In the wake of the alleged sexual assault of two young girls in Badlapur, Maharashtra, widespread outrage has led to the announcement of a statewide bandh by the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) for August 24. The bandh has received support from major opposition parties including Congress, Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena, and Sharad Pawar’s Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).

Details of the Badlapur Incident

In Badlapur, a disturbing case emerged involving the sexual abuse of two girls, aged three and four, by a school sweeper. This horrific incident has prompted large-scale protests, with demonstrators vandalizing the school and halting train services at Badlapur railway station. In response, the police have registered FIRs against 300 individuals for vandalism and stone-pelting, and have arrested the accused.

Impact on Daily Services

The Maharashtra government has yet to issue specific instructions regarding the impact of the bandh on daily services. However, it is anticipated that schools and colleges, typically closed on Saturdays, will remain shut. Public transport services, including buses and metros, are expected to operate as usual unless further directives are issued.

Banking Services

August 24, being the fourth Saturday of the month, will see banks across the country closed as per the Reserve Bank of India’s regulations, which designate the second and fourth Saturdays of the month as bank holidays.

Political Reactions and Statements

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut emphasized the public’s frustration and highlighted the FIRs filed against protesters. NCP leader Jitendra Awhad criticized the state government, describing it as “completely unconstitutional” and pointing to a rise in criminal activities as justification for the bandh. Congress leader Balasaheb Thorat condemned the Badlapur incident as “very serious,” underscoring the necessity of the bandh.

The Maharashtra bandh on August 24 serves as a significant political and social response to the grave allegations and the broader issues of safety and governance in the state.