Mumbai: Maharashtra Minister and Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar has raised concerns over the missing CCTV footage from the Badlapur school, where two minor girls were allegedly sexually assaulted. Kesarkar revealed that the CCTV footage from the last 15 days is missing, stating, “It is important to investigate why the footage has gone missing and what the motive behind it is.”
Addressing a press conference in Mumbai, Kesarkar also suggested that panic buttons could be installed in schools, similar to CCTV cameras, to enhance safety measures. "Just like CCTVs, panic buttons can also be installed… A panic button can also be installed in the hostels. It is an advanced technology," he added.
The minister further explained that the investigation team, led by the deputy director of the Mumbai region, conducted a thorough probe into the Badlapur incident. The investigation involved various departments, and the police will determine under which sections the cases will be filed. "The people who have been found negligent have been identified as co-accused. They also have to face consequences," Kesarkar said.
A report prepared by the Women and Child Welfare Department and the Education Ministry regarding the sexual abuse case in Badlapur was handed over to Kesarkar on Monday. This report forms a crucial part of the ongoing investigation.
Earlier, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) handling the case registered an FIR against the school authorities for not complying with Section 19 of the POCSO Act. This section mandates that any authority aware of sexual assault against minors must report it to the police for further action.
The alleged sexual assault of two nursery girls at the school in Badlapur has sparked outrage. On August 17, police arrested a school attendant for allegedly abusing the girls. The case has drawn widespread attention, with demands for justice and stricter safety measures in educational institutions.
With inputs from ANI