The brutal sexual assault and murder of a four-year-old girl in Bhor’s Nasrapur area of Pune district on May 1 have triggered widespread anger in Maharashtra. The child, visiting Nasrapur for her summer break, was enticed by a 65-year-old man to a cattle shed with the promise of food. Subsequently, she was raped, killed with a stone, and concealed under dung.
CCTV footage exposed the crime, leading to the swift arrest of the 65-year-old suspect, who reportedly has a history of prior molestation charges dating back to 1998 and 2015. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, also the Home Minister, denounced the incident as a “blot on humanity” and instructed the Pune Rural Police to ensure a strong case for a Fast-Track Court trial.
CM Fadnavis pledged to reveal the complete truth and pursue the death penalty for the accused to establish a firm precedent. He has ordered heightened police presence in the Bhor region to reassure residents. In response to protests in Nasrapur, senior police officials are overseeing the investigation to eliminate any legal gaps.
The Opposition criticized the state government for the deteriorating law and order situation and its failure to safeguard women and children. NCP SP Working President Supriya Sule visited the area, condemning the “inhuman” act and urging the police to act impartially for severe punishment. Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar questioned the Home Ministry’s handling of repeat offenders and demanded enhanced safety measures for minors.
Maharashtra Legislative Council deputy chairperson Neelam Gorhe called for strict action against the perpetrator, while Shiv Sena MP Jyoti Waghmare advocated for the death penalty. BJP legislator Chitra Wagh emphasized the need for justice and community unity. Villagers protested by blocking the Pune-Satara Highway, demanding swift justice and the culprit’s punishment within a month.
