The recent police encounter of Akshay Shinde, accused of sexually assaulting two girls at a school in Badlapur, Maharashtra, has ignited a fierce political debate in the state. According to police, Shinde was killed in retaliatory fire after he allegedly snatched an officer’s pistol and opened fire while being transferred from Taloja Jail, injuring three officers. However, opposition parties, led by NCP and Congress, have expressed skepticism about this narrative, questioning how a handcuffed man could overpower armed officers. They suggest the encounter might be a cover-up to protect the true culprits, noting the school’s ownership by a BJP leader. This incident has divided public opinion, with some viewing it as necessary “instant justice” in light of an overburdened legal system, while others condemn it as a violation of constitutional due process. The case has reignited discussions about the increasing prevalence of “encounter justice” in India, highlighting the tension between swift action and adherence to legal procedures. As the debate unfolds on social media and in political circles, it underscores broader concerns about the state of the criminal justice system and the role of extrajudicial actions in law enforcement.
