PUNE: Large parts of the Bhor–Rajgad belt in Pune district remained shut on Sunday as protests intensified over the rape and murder of a three-year-old girl in Nasrapur village. Residents observed a bandh, with shops closed and normal activity disrupted, while the victim’s family demanded the death penalty for the accused.
Police have arrested a 65-year-old labourer from the village, who is also a father of seven. He is alleged to have a history of child abuse.
The child went missing on Friday afternoon. During the search, CCTV footage from a nearby house reportedly showed the accused taking her towards a cattle shed about 700 metres away. Her body was later recovered from the location.
Anger spread across the district following the incident. Protesters attempted to block traffic at Khed Shivapur toll plaza before being dispersed by police. On Saturday night, demonstrators, including members of the victim’s family, blocked the Mumbai–Bengaluru highway near Wadgaon bridge for over four hours, demanding swift and strict action.
In a video message, the child’s father said the family would not meet any political leaders until the accused is sentenced to death. Several politicians had planned visits, but some—including minister Madhuri Misal and activist Manoj Jarange—cancelled them following the family’s request.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said public anger was understandable but urged restraint. He stated that the government would pursue the death penalty and ensure a fast-track trial. “Procedures will be expedited,” he said, while adding that demands such as public execution cannot be met within the framework of law.
Allegations of police using force during Saturday night’s protests drew criticism. BJP leader Medha Kulkarni said such action should not have occurred, while Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal accused authorities of attempting to suppress voices demanding justice.
Police said the situation is now under control, and further investigation is underway.
