The Bombay High Court has criticized the Maharashtra Police over the custodial death of Akshay Shinde, accused of sexually assaulting two minor girls in Badlapur. During a hearing on Akshay’s father’s plea, Justice Chavan questioned the police’s encounter theory, citing inconsistencies and potential foul play.
Akshay’s father, Anna Shinde, alleged that his son was killed in a “fake encounter” and demanded a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the killing, with the High Court monitoring the investigation. The court expressed concerns over the police’s decision to shoot Akshay in the head, rather than attempting to overpower him first.
“A layman cannot fire a pistol. A weak man cannot load the pistol as it needs strength,” Justice Chavan remarked. The court also questioned why Akshay was shot in the head directly, rather than in the legs or arms.
The incident occurred on September 23, when Akshay was being transported from Taloja jail to Badlapur in connection with an FIR filed by his former wife. Police claim Akshay snatched a gun from an officer and shot an assistant inspector, leading to another officer firing back and killing him.
However, the court remains skeptical, stating, “The moment he pulled the first trigger, the others could have easily overpowered him. He wasn’t a huge built-up or strong man. This is very difficult to accept. This cannot be termed as an encounter”.
The case has sparked widespread outrage, with protests erupting in the state following
Akshay’s arrest on August 17. As the investigation continues, the Bombay High Court’s intervention seeks to ensure a fair and impartial probe into the circumstances surrounding Akshay’s death.
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