05 May,2026 12:09 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Pic/DyCMO
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday said the state government is committed to ensuring the harshest possible punishment in the rape and murder case of a minor girl in Bhor's Nasrapur, asserting that authorities will pursue the death penalty and expedite the legal process.
Speaking after meeting a delegation of villagers from Nasrapur, Shinde said the government is treating the case with utmost seriousness and will take all necessary steps to ensure that justice is delivered swiftly. The villagers, including members of the local gram panchayat, had approached him with a memorandum demanding capital punishment for the accused, identified as Bhimrao Kamble.
During the meeting, residents alleged that the accused in Pune rape case had a history of similar offences and expressed concern over his previous releases. They claimed that despite earlier punishments, the accused had reoffended, raising fears about public safety if he were to evade strict punishment again.
The delegation urged the government to ensure that the case is handled firmly and that the accused does not benefit from legal loopholes or procedural delays. They stressed the need for decisive action to prevent recurrence of such crimes.
Shinde said he has discussed the Pune rape case with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, adding that both leaders are closely monitoring developments. Instructions have been issued to the police to ensure meticulous collection of forensic and other evidence so that the charge sheet can be filed without delay.
He also indicated that the prosecution would invoke stringent legal provisions to prevent the accused from seeking relief on grounds such as age or mental health. Experienced legal professionals from Pune are expected to be appointed as special public prosecutors to handle the case.
Senior police officials, including Director General of Police Sadanand Date, are providing regular updates to the state leadership, Shinde said, underlining that there will be no leniency in the investigation or prosecution.
To accelerate the judicial process, the state government is considering approaching the High Court to request daily hearings in the matter. Officials are also examining the possibility of setting up a dedicated fast-track or special court to ensure that the trial proceeds without unnecessary delays.
Shinde said these measures are aimed at delivering timely justice to the victim's family and reinforcing public confidence in the legal system.
Following the incident, the Deputy Chief Minister said he had spoken to the victim's father to offer condolences and assure him of the government's support. He reiterated that the administration remains determined to secure the strictest punishment in the case.
"The government has a responsibility to act decisively in such cases and ensure that justice is not only done but seen to be done," he said, adding that the state will pursue the matter until its conclusion.
