The call for a Maharashtra Bandh has gained further momentum with NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar expressing his support for the protest against the recent Badlapur incident. The shutdown, which is set to take place on Saturday, is a response to the shocking incident that has sparked widespread outrage across the state. Pawar appealed to the people of Maharashtra to participate in the bandh peacefully, emphasising the need for strict action against those responsible for the incident.
Pawar described the Badlapur incident as a serious issue that has understandably provoked strong reactions from various quarters. He stressed the importance of the Home Department remaining vigilant and taking firm measures to prevent such incidents from recurring.
The NCP leader also highlighted the rising number of incidents involving violence against women and girls in Maharashtra, which has only fueled public anger and necessitated this bandh.
Encouraging a peaceful protest, Pawar assured that his party would actively participate in the bandh, expressing confidence that the people of Maharashtra would join in the demonstration. He emphasised the importance of raising awareness among the public and law enforcement agencies to prevent such heinous acts in the future.
Pawar also urged the government to handle the situation with the utmost sensitivity, cautioning against taking punitive action against those who were peacefully expressing their anger. He stressed that the government's response should prioritise understanding the gravity of the situation rather than simply penalising protesters.
Earlier in the day, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray had announced the Maharashtra Bandh, framing it as a protest against the growing number of atrocities committed against women in the state.
Thackeray clarified that the bandh was not politically motivated but was a necessary action to demand better protection for women and girls. He urged all citizens, regardless of their religious or caste affiliations, to support the bandh in the interest of safeguarding their daughters and sisters.
Thackeray also criticised the Maharashtra government, questioning its handling of the situation and its focus on schemes like the Ladli Behan Yojana over the safety of women.
He urged shopkeepers and other members of the community to join the bandh, which is scheduled to last until 2 p.m., to send a strong message to the government.
The bandh announcement follows a special investigation team (SIT) probe into the Badlapur sexual assault case involving minors. The SIT has registered an FIR against the school authorities for failing to report the incident to the police as required under Section 19 of the POCSO Act. This development has further intensified the calls for accountability and justice, fueling support for the Maharashtra Bandh.
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