A minor girl assaulted in Kalyan: 2 religious fanatics in police custody

Thane, 22 June – In Kalyan (East), a 15‑year‑old girl who earns her livelihood by collecting waste was lured and taken into a locked house, where Akhtar Maniyar (60) and Salim Shaikh (62) sexually assaulted her. On the midnight of 20 June, local residents rushed to the spot after hearing the girl’s cries for help. They immediately intervened, rescued her and handed both accused over to the police. A case has been registered at Kolsewadi Police Station under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and POCSO Act. (Understand the mentality of religious fanatics ! Such acts are committed because they do not fear the law. – Editor)

Following the incident, strong anger is being expressed in the area. Devout Hindu organisations, women’s organisations and local residents have demanded capital punishment for the accused. Local Shiv Sena corporator Mahesh Gaikwad also demanded that the case be tried in a fast-track court and that the accused be given stringent punishment. Police are carrying out further investigation in the case.

Maniyar runs a tea stall, while Salim Shaikh is a rickshaw driver. The victim belongs to an extremely poor family.