The Special Investigation Team (SIT) announced on Tuesday that it would conduct the identification parade of the accused in the Badlapur sexual assault case. This step is crucial in the ongoing investigation, as it allows the victims to identify the individuals responsible for the horrific incident. The identification parade will be conducted in the presence of an Executive Magistrate to ensure the process is carried out with utmost transparency and according to legal procedures.
The SIT's decision to conduct this identification parade is part of a broader investigation into the sexual assault case that has shocked the community. The Badlapur incident, which involved minors, has drawn widespread attention, leading to a rigorous investigation by the authorities. The identification of the accused is a significant step towards ensuring justice for the victims, as it will help solidify the case against those responsible.
The SIT, under the leadership of the Deputy Director of the Mumbai region, has been diligently working on this case. The investigation team comprises individuals from various departments, all working together to uncover the truth and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The complexity of the case has necessitated a thorough and coordinated approach, with every effort being made to ensure that no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of justice.
In addition to the identification parade, the SIT has also decided to prepare a psychological profile of the accused. This move is aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of the individuals involved, which could provide valuable insights into their motives and behaviour. The psychological profiling will also assist in the further investigation of the case, helping the authorities to build a stronger case against the accused.
The Badlapur sexual assault case has also led to the registration of an FIR against the school authorities. On August 23, the SIT filed this FIR for the school’s failure to comply with the provisions of Section 19 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
This section mandates that any authority, upon becoming aware of a sexual assault against minors, must report the incident to the police for further action. The school's non-compliance with this crucial legal obligation has added another layer of complexity to the case, as it raises questions about the handling of the situation by those in charge.
The involvement of the Women and Child Welfare Department and the Education Ministry has further intensified the investigation. A report prepared by these departments on the sexual abuse case was handed over to Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar on Monday.
This report is expected to play a pivotal role in guiding the next steps of the investigation and ensuring that all relevant aspects of the case are thoroughly examined.
In a significant development, Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar revealed that CCTV footage from the school, covering the last 15 days, is missing. This missing footage has raised serious concerns about the possible motives behind its disappearance.
The Minister emphasised the importance of investigating why the footage is missing and what it might indicate about the events leading up to the assault. The absence of this crucial evidence has added a new layer of urgency to the investigation, as the authorities work to uncover the truth.
Minister Kesarkar also highlighted the need for improved safety measures in schools, such as the installation of panic buttons alongside CCTVs. He suggested that panic buttons could be a valuable tool in preventing such incidents in the future, providing an immediate way for students to alert authorities in case of danger. This proposal reflects the broader need for enhanced security measures in educational institutions to protect children from harm.
Earlier on Monday, the accused in the sexual assault case were sent to judicial custody for 14 days by the Kalyan Court. This decision underscores the seriousness of the case and the determination of the authorities to ensure that justice is served.
The judicial custody of the accused will allow the SIT to continue its investigation without interference, as they work to gather more evidence and build a strong case against those responsible.