 |
|
The tragic death of Akshay Shinde, a 24-year-old accused of sexually assaulting two minor girls in Badlapur, has sparked widespread outrage and calls for a thorough investigation. Shinde's death occurred while he was being transported to Badlapur from Taloja jail for investigation, allegedly after he snatched the gun of a policeman and shot an assistant police inspector. The officer, Sanjay Shinde, who fatally shot Akshay Shinde, has a controversial history, having previously worked with suspended former ‘encounter specialist’ Pradeep Sharma. This connection raises serious questions about the circumstances surrounding Shinde's death and the potential for police misconduct.
Pradeep Sharma, known for his reputation as an ‘encounter specialist’ in the Mumbai Police, was credited with neutralizing over 100 criminals throughout his career. However, his methods came under scrutiny, and he was eventually convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment for his role in the 2006 fake encounter of Lakhan Bhaiya. Sanjay Shinde's association with Sharma, who has been accused of extrajudicial killings, adds another layer of complexity to the investigation into Shinde's death. Shinde himself has a troubled past, facing suspension and an inquiry after murder accused Vijay Palande escaped police custody. He was accused of aiding Palande's escape due to their known acquaintance, and Shinde's uniform was even found in Palande's car.
The Maharashtra government has rightly ordered the Crime Investigation Department (CID) to investigate the death of Akshay Shinde, recognizing the seriousness of the incident and the need for a transparent and independent investigation. The CID's investigation should not only focus on the events leading to Shinde's death but also delve into the history and conduct of Sanjay Shinde, his association with Pradeep Sharma, and any potential motives or bias that may have influenced his actions. It is crucial to establish the facts of the case and ensure that justice is served for all involved. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for accountability and transparency within law enforcement agencies and the importance of protecting the rights of all individuals, including those accused of crimes.