Mumbai local train services on the Central Line were disrupted Tuesday (August 20) morning due to large-scale protests at Badlapur railway station. The demonstrations were sparked by allegations of sexual assault involving two four-year-old schoolgirls by a cleaning staff member and accusations of delays in police action.
The Central Railway reported that from 10:10 am, train operations were halted at Badlapur station due to the protests. “From 10.10 am, the train movement is held up at the Badlapur railway station due to protest for non-railway issues,” CR officials said.
As a result, train services in both directions were suspended, and five express trains were rerouted via the Karjat-Panvel route to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT).
Why are parents protesting?
Protesters, including local residents and parents of the victims, have criticised the police for their delayed response to the case. The alleged assaults occurred on August 12 and 13 in a school washroom, with an FIR only filed on August 16 after public outcry. The accused, employed by the school on a contractual basis, has been arrested.
The protests have led to the closure of shops and establishments in Badlapur, including the school involved. Local political leaders joined the protests, adding to the public pressure.
A senior police officer said, “A stringent criminal case has been registered. Within four hours (of the case registration), the accused was arrested. The court granted police custody of the accused. A thorough investigation is being carried out. A senior inspector of the police station concerned himself is investigating the matter and two experienced women police officers have been assisting him. Senior officers are also overseeing the investigation to ensure a watertight case is prepared with maximum pieces of evidence.”
The police have requested the public to refrain from further protests, as they could impede the investigation. The Thane police commissioner has imposed restrictions on such gatherings. Additionally, a senior inspector has been transferred due to allegations of delays in filing the case.